Report: Paul, Westbrook among Lakers' possible point guard targets

The Los Angeles Lakers are hoping to add a veteran point guard this summer and are considering Phoenix Suns star Chris Paul, sources told The Undefeated's Marc J. Spears.

Washington Wizards ball-handler Russell Westbrook is also reportedly among the Lakers' potential targets.

Paul's contract contains a $44.2-million player option for next season, which he must decide whether to exercise by Aug. 1. Landing in Los Angeles would almost certainly require him to decline the option and enter free agency, followed by a sign-and-trade agreement between the Lakers and Suns.

The 11-time All-Star is a longtime close friend of Lakers star LeBron James, who appeared courtside for Game 5 in Phoenix to support Paul during The Finals.

Talks regarding adding Westbrook reportedly include a sign-and-trade involving Lakers guard Dennis Schroder, who will become a free agent this offseason. That swap could also feature Lakers forward Kyle Kuzma and rising guard Talen Horton-Tucker, sources told Spears.

If Paul locks in his salary for next season, he would then be immediately eligible to negotiate an extension with Phoenix that would kick in for the 2022-23 campaign.

Pursuing that route would likely keep the 36-year-old in Phoenix to end his career. After losing in The Finals to the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday, Paul said he won't retire this offseason, and the veteran expects to get "back to work."