NBA Bombshell: Lakers Hatch Plan, LeBron out, Jokić In for duo with Dončić

Minnesota swept the Lakers in the first round of last season's playoffs, and no one expects Los Angeles to be serious title contenders next season.

LeBron James, legend as he is, is simply getting older, and Luka Dončić arrived understandably frustrated after being abruptly traded by the Mavericks.

Adding to the difficulties, he reportedly arrived in Los Angeles carrying some extra weight, contributing to a disappointing season.

However, next year brings higher expectations and the potential for some blockbuster additions.

The first step towards achieving this is LeBron James' departure from Los Angeles.

The King extended his contract for one more year, earning a hefty $52,627,153.

This will likely be James' final season with the Lakers, and his exit would free up significant cap space to pursue Nikola Jokić or Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The second prerequisite is Luka Dončić signing a new contract, which everyone in LA expects to happen after EuroBasket.

The reigning MVP's current contract with the Nuggets runs through 2027.

He hasn't signed an extension yet, and as Clutch Points reports, if he does, the Lakers will face a significant challenge acquiring the Serbian star.

They would likely have to offer a king's ransom in players and draft picks.

Jokić seems much closer to signing a new deal, especially after the Nuggets' front office met his demands for a competitive roster, putting them firmly back in championship contention.

If acquiring Jokić proves too complicated and threatens to disrupt the team's structure, the Lakers will turn their attention to Giannis Antetokounmpo.

He's under contract with the Milwaukee Bucks until 2028, but is reportedly more dissatisfied than Jokić.

Milwaukee has struggled for years, and Giannis was further disappointed by the Bucks' waiving of the injured Damian Lillard, a move he publicly criticized.

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Knowing the Lakers, when they set their minds to something, they often achieve it.

Don't be surprised if, in the coming seasons, we see either Jokić or Giannis in purple and gold, teaming up with Luka Dončić to chase an NBA title. Who would you prefer to see in Los Angeles?