The Los Angeles Lakers are setting their sights high this offseason, with rumors swirling that they’ll be making a strong run at superstar Jayson Tatum. This wouldn’t be just any free agent pickup; Tatum’s well-documented Lakers fandom and idolization of Kobe Bryant make a potential signing even more intriguing.

Tatum grew up a passionate Lakers fan, and Kobe Bryant was his basketball hero. He’s even admitted that being drafted by the Lakers in 2017 would have been “a dream come true.” The Lakers, who famously passed on Tatum in that draft, might now get a second chance.

The logic behind chasing Tatum is clear. He’s a bonafide star, a scorer with a well-rounded skillset who could elevate the Lakers back into title contention. LeBron James’ future may be uncertain, but pairing Tatum with Anthony Davis creates a dominant duo capable of serious damage.

The question remаins: will Tatum answer the call? While he’s thrived in Boston, the allure of playing for his childhood team and potentially following in Kobe’s footsteps could be powerful. The Lakers are banking on that connection, hoping a dream can become reality this offseason.