The Dallas Mavericks have positioned themselves as the favorite to make an offer for Los Angeles Lakers forward Julius Randle, according to Bleacher Report's Eric Pincus.
The Lakers are expected to let go of the big man in order to free up as much cap space as possible, allowing for the signing of two major superstars — among their marks are the noncommittal LeBron James and hometown product Paul George.
Yet the Mavs, a team that has struggled for the last couple of seasons, has a chance to buff their frontcourt with a young, athletic big man peaking at the right time.
Randle has hurt the Mavs throughout three games thus far this season, averaging 22.3 points, 12 rebounds, and 6.3 assists, while shooting a blistering 65.1 percent from the field.
The Mavs project to have about $18 million and up to $77 million over four seasons, that figure potentially becoming bigger if Wesley Matthews opts out of his contract or if the team renounces Doug McDermott's rights.
Randle will be a restricted free agent this summer and should the Lakers match any offer for the power forward, it would count against their cap, likely positioning them outside the reins of hauling in two superstar players.
The Dallas native has battled through a lot this season, first losing his starting job to Larry Nance Jr., then to rookie Kyle Kuzma; but eventually getting it back mid-season and flourishing with ample playing time, which has made a massive selling point for his abilities.
The Lakers may be playing for the future (or ping pong balls) now, but Randle is working his way to his biggest payday.
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