RealGM

I just put a deposit for 4 seats for Laker season tickets. The season ticket representative told me the waiting list would be around 3-4 years. By that time, most of the core group's contracts (Bryant, Gasol, Odom, Artest) will be up and the Lakers will be looking for the next Laker superstar. I'm sure Bryant will have more years to play after his contract ends, as I want to be a season ticket holder for at least one season where he's still playing.

Is it wishful thinking to hoping that Derrick Rose, Deron Williams, Chris Paul, Dwight Howard, or Blake Griffin would be on the Lakers by then?

no to griffin, yes to deron, cp3, or howard

CP3, Dwight, and Deron can be free agents before our core's contracts expires. Some notable free agents for the summer of 2014 are Danny Granger, Monta Ellis, and Andrew Bogut. If you are banking on an elite talent I just don't think we will see it right after the Kobe and Pau era unless we make a trade before those contracts are up.

DWill, CP3, and Howard's contracts all expire within 3 years. Even though it's 4+ years until Kobe retires, it's hard not to think about who might replace him as the star.

I just hope that when I get my tickets, the Lakers are still somewhat competitive.