In recent decades, the Los Angeles Lakers have been known for their ability to attract superstar players and build a strong basketball legacy. However, after the decline of Kobe Bryant’s career, the team shifted their strategy and focused on building through the NBA draft. In 2017, they had the opportunity to select Jayson Tatum from Duke University with the second overall pick. Instead, they chose Lonzo Ball, who had strong connections to Los Angeles. Tatum was subsequently chosen by the Boston Celtics with the next selection.

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.