5 crucial decisions the LA Lakers have to make this off-season

#3 Re-sign Rajon Rondo in the free agency

2020 NBA Finals - Game Five

After a lackluster regular season, Rajon Rondo rejuvenated himself in the 2020 NBA playoffs. The veteran played a key role in the LA Lakers' championship run and helped LeBron James by taking over the playmaking duties.

SOURCE SPORTS: Lakers Rajon Rondo To Opt-Out Of His Contract And Test Free Agency https://t.co/ewBocITpHG

— The Source Magazine (@TheSource) October 20, 2020

Though Rajon Rondo is no longer in his prime, his experience and leadership will be a crucial factor in the LA Lakers' bench. With Rondo now a free agent, the 2020 champions should look to re-sign him for another short-term contract.

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#4 Trade for a backup point guard

Oklahoma City Thunder vs Utah Jazz

LeBron James led the league in assists last season and was undoubtedly the best playmaker in the NBA.

While James has the ability to continue playing the point forward position, he will be 36 years old next season, and the LA Lakers should look to take some pressure off his shoulders.

KuzGreenCookJavaleBradley1st round pick for Chris Paul …..that’s a LOT…but I’d do it lol https://t.co/MSllcTsl7k

— Ry (@JustRyCole) October 15, 2020

NBA trade rumors in this regard indicate that guards like Chris Paul, Derrick Rose and Bradley Beal are on the LA Lakers' radar. Though its cap space situation will make things complicated, the LA Lakers should go all-in if an opportunity to sign a third star arises in the off-season.

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#5 Re-sign Dwight Howard

Los Angeles Lakers vs Golden State Warriors

LA Lakers gambled when they signed Dwight Howard on a one-year minimum contract in 2019. But the 34-year-old more than delivered his money's worth during the 2020 NBA playoffs and was one of the key reasons for the success of the Purple and Gold brigade.

His physical presence in defense was crucial against guys like Nikola Jokic and Bam Adebayo in the playoffs. Given Anthony Davis' inclination to play at power forward, the Lakers could use Howard in the paint to match up against other bigs in the opponent team.

Considering the same, the LA Lakers should look to re-sign Dwight Howard for at least one more year.