Lakers News & Rumors: Kyrie Irving Latest + Russell Westbrook Return?

The Lakers draft was ultimately a successful one after taking Max Christie in the 2nd round of the 2022 NBA Draft. Now, Lakers free agency is right around the corner, and Kyrie Irving rumors still loom large. On the Lakers Report, we break down the latest Kyrie Irving updates along with the latest Lakers trade rumors after the latest Rob Pelinka press conference featured talks about the Russell Westbrook player option. Lakers UDFA signings made on Friday were headlined by Fabian White Jr. and R.J. Cole, who will likely join Shareef O’Neal and Scotty Pippen Jr. on the Lakers summer league roster. Chase Senior breaks down all the latest Lakers rumors and news on today’s video!

Lakers UDFA signings picked up right after the 2022 NBA Draft - here’s their updated Lakers UDFA class as of now:
- Scotty Pippen Jr. (G, Vanderbilt)
- RJ Cole (G, UConn)
- Fabian White Jr. (F, Houston)
- Cole Swider (F, Syracuse)
- Shareef O’Neal (C, LSU)

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Rob Pelinka also spoke on the Russell Westbrook situation after the Lakers draft with his player option decision looming:
- He hasn’t given a final decision on that yet. He has more days to figure all that out with his family. But if he comes back, he will be embraced here with open arms and want to put a path in front of him to have a successful season … We’ve been honest about how we think he fits with this team and what we expect of him next year if he decides to opt in and be here. He’s ready to embrace the philosophy of defense first as well. He made that clear to Darvin and me if he chooses to come back.

Lakers Nation is about the fans, and we want to hear from you! Get in the comments and answer the following questions:
- How bad do you want Kyrie in Los Angeles? Scale it from 1-10
- Do you have faith in Russ improving on defense? Type ‘Y’ for Yes, Type ‘N’ for No
- Should the Lakers sign Kemba Walker? Type ‘S’ for Sign, Type ‘P’ for Pass