People chase Ayton and aim for Horford! The Warriors want to lose Payton little, fans: The gap between the two teams widens

On the first day of the free market, the two major Western teams showed completely different trends: the Lakers actively chased Ayton and Horford, trying to strengthen the inside line; the Warriors were facing the dilemma of Payton Jr. leaving the team and Rooney had already gone, and the championship team fell apart. Fans sighed: "It is also a championship team. One is actively upgrading and the other is passively disintegrating, and the gap is widening."

The Lakers' signing target is clear: Ayton averaged 18 points and 10 rebounds last season, providing stable inside scores and rebound protection, while Horford is experienced and has three-point shooting and defensive response capabilities. If the two join, they can relieve the inside pressure of Davis and make the team's lineup more flexible. Although the management has not completed the signing, judging from Ayton's move to show off the Lakers' hat, the negotiations between the two sides have entered a critical stage. The situation of the

Warriors is worrying. Payton Jr. may leave the team due to salary issues, and Kumingga's contract renewal is also at a deadlock. There are only 5 players left in the 2022 championship lineup, and only 3 people are confirmed to stay in the team. After losing Rooney, the problem of empty inside line needs to be solved urgently. Although targeting Horford, the latter is more inclined to join a team with clearer prospects for the championship, and the Warriors are much less attractive than before. The loss of role players on both offense and defense has made the road to championship competition between Curry and Green more and more difficult.

The changes in the western pattern can be seen from the naked eye. The Nuggets and Rockets have improved their combat power through efficient signings. The Lakers are actively operating, while the Warriors are struggling with the disintegration of the lineup. If the Lakers successfully strengthen the inside in the new season, the Warriors failed to retain Payton Jr., the strength gap between the two teams may be further widened, and whether the Warriors can hold their playoff spot will be a question.