In reсent deсades, the Loѕ Angeleѕ Lаkers hаve been known for theіr аbility to аttrаct ѕuperѕtar рlayers аnd buіld а ѕtrong bаsketbаll legаcy. However, аfter the deсline of Kobe Bryаnt’s сareer, the teаm ѕhifted theіr ѕtrategy аnd foсused on buіldіng through the NBA drаft. In 2017, they hаd the oррortunity to ѕelect Jаyson Tаtum from Duke Unіversіty wіth the ѕecond overаll рick. Inѕtead, they сhose Lonzo Bаll, who hаd ѕtrong сonneсtions to Loѕ Angeleѕ. Tаtum wаs ѕubѕequently сhosen by the Boѕton Celtіcs wіth the next ѕelection.
In hindsight, it is evident that Tatum has developed into the better player, leading the Celtics to an NBA Finals appearance, while Ball was eventually traded to the New Orleans Pelicans and is now with the Chicago Bulls. Tatum, who has openly expressed his admiration for Kobe Bryant, revealed that he had hoped to be selected by the Lakers with the second overall pick. He stated that the Lakers “didn’t want anything to do with me at the time.”
Despite being a Lakers fan, Tatum has found success with the Celtics and has the potential to win his first championship as they compete against the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals. A championship victory would elevate Tatum’s status in the league and solidify his credentials as a superstar player.
Looking ahead, although Tatum is currently content with the Celtics, it is not impossible to consider the possibility of him joining the Lakers in the future. If his time in Boston concludes without a championship, and with the Lakers undergoing changes in the coming years, Tatum could become a free agent in 2025. At that point, he would be 27 years old, and the Lakers, likely seeking a new face of the franchise after LeBron James’ retirement, would be highly interested in acquiring him. Given Tatum’s affinity for the Lakers, the possibility of him wearing the purple and gold jersey cannot be completely disregarded.