Klutch is definitely a factor.
AD doesn't come across as a weak minded kidnap victim.
But, we've also seen guys go against their agents at the 11th hour.
* See Deandre " Stockholm Syndrome " Jordan.
Agree 100%.
Imo, AD signing with Klutch gives the Lakers an "in" that they didn't have with PG and don't have with Kawhi. But it doesn't guarantee a thing.
Assuming a trade doesn't happen during the season, the Celtics may decide to go all in and risk AD leaving. I'd imagine that if they make the finals during those 2 years, it would be awfully tough to walk away from them. Especially if he has a title or 2.
But, we often see things happen in trades and FA that folks didn't see coming (both for better and worse lol).
I don't think anyone saw KG being traded to the Celtics, or KD going to the Warriors, or Lebron signing with the Lakers with no other stars coming with him.
The Lakers getting him is a bit of a long shot, especially if it's before he becomes an FA. But, it's shot they have to take.
I will say though, there's a part of me that wants the Lakers to get AD, not because of how much it will help the team (that goes without saying)...
But because I want to see all of the crying and conspiracy theories about the league making it happen to get the Lakers back on top.