Los Angeles Lakers superstar small forward LeBron James has reportedly already begun recruiting Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler.

According to Brian Windhorst of ESPN, James has been in contact with Leonard and Butler, who both become unrestricted free agents this summer once they decline their 2019-20 player options with their respective teams.

The Lakers have cap space to sign only one max contract player this summer. They would have to do some major roster construction to be able to afford two.

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Leonard averaged 26.6 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game this season for the Raptors. The three-time All-Star and two-time Defensive Player of the Year is from the California area, but he's been heavily linked to the Clippers over the Lakers.

Butler, meanwhile, put up 18.7 points, 5.3 rebounds and 4.0 assists with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Philadelphia 76ers this season. The Sixers want to keep Butler, but they might not have enough money to re-sign him and Tobias Harris, who is a free agent this summer as well.

One thing is clear: The Lakers have to get at least one star player this summer. LeBron turns 35 in December.

He needs more help by his side if the team wants to make the playoffs next season.