Jewelers are already lining up to produce the next championship rings for the Lakers now that they've gotten commitments from Gary Payton and Karl Malone.

But it's more important that the Lakers sign Malone, who is willing to play for the 10-year veteran minimum of $1.5 million, than Payton, who has agreed to accept the $4.9 million mid-level exception.

Just adding Payton wouldn't be enough because the Lakers need help up front in a Western Conference where size rules.