Lakers Miss Out on Bruce Brown as Pacers Make Jaw-Dropping Offer
The Los Angeles Lakers recently faced disappointment in free agency, losing out on a key target: Bruce Brown, a versatile guard with championship experience. After being swept by the Denver Nuggets in the 2023 Western Conference Finals, the Lakers’ front office, led by team president and general manager Rob Pelinka, aimed to strengthen their roster by bringing in Brown, who had proven invaluable as a sixth man in Denver.
A Promising Fit in Los Angeles
The Lakers entered the offseason with a talented core anchored by All-Stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis. They also boasted younger talents like guard Austin Reaves and forward Rui Hachimura, both of whom showcased their potential during the playoffs. Brown’s unique skill set made him an attractive addition. Known for his proficiency in pick-and-roll situations, solid passing, defensive capabilities, and rebounding, he had endeared himself to fans and coaches alike in Denver.
During a recent appearance on the “DNVR Nuggets Podcast,” Brown reflected on his near-miss with the Lakers. He recounted his enthusiasm when he received an offer from Los Angeles. “I was going to the Lakers after the championship,” he said. “They wanted me to be their starting point guard, and I thought, ‘I got LeBron, I got AD, and I want to win again.’”
The Game-Changing Offer from Indiana
Just as Brown was about to make a decision, the Indiana Pacers entered the fray with a staggering offer that would change everything. As Brown recounted, his agent quickly called him after speaking with the Pacers, revealing, “It might be a crazy deal.” The initial offer was two years for $40 million, which had Brown reeling with excitement. “I’m like, ‘What the f—? …Where do we sign? Let’s do it!’”
The Lakers’ offer, while competitive at three years for $50 million, included a trade kicker that made it less appealing compared to the Pacers’ proposal. Brown explained the nuances: “They [the Pacers] offered me two years, $40 million, but then Tyrese Haliburton reached out to me, saying, ‘We really want you here. I want to play with you,’ and it eventually turned into two years for $45 million.”
A Short-Lived Stay in Indiana
Brown’s time with the Pacers, however, didn’t last long. Midway through the season, he was traded to the Toronto Raptors, who then dealt him to the New Orleans Pelicans during the 2024-25 campaign. This whirlwind journey eventually led him back to the Nuggets on a veteran’s minimum deal this past summer, marking a return to the team where he found significant success.
As the Lakers look to regroup and re-evaluate their strategy, the impact of missing out on Brown—a player who could have significantly bolstered their roster—lingers. The offseason continues to unfold, but the echoes of this free agency miss will resonate in the halls of the Staples Center as they chase another championship.
