Team Needs:
Defense, defense and some more defense. Lakers ranked 30th at year-end allowing 111.5 points per game. Moreover, LA ranked 28th in blocks and 26th in defensive rebounding (23rd in defensive rebound percent). Additionally, the Lakers need consistent scorers and more playmakers to capitalize on Luke Walton’s expertise.
Free Agents:
- Tyler Ennis – UFA
- Metta World Peace – UFA
- Thomas Robinson – UFA
- Nick Young – UFA
Roster Gaps:
Defensive minded players, rim protectors, 2-way players, ball handlers, shot creators, and players who provide demonstrative leadership skills.
Kyle Kuzma:
As for Kyle Kuzma in TI’s draft prospect preview his skills were highlighted as:
"Examining the boxes Kuzma checks off does seemingly point to him developing into the prototypical power forward of the new era NBA. Most especially, his 32 percent efficiency from the perimeter isn’t yet up to standard to deem him a stretch four. Where he does excel is in the playmaking role for a big. He has adeptly demonstrated wise decision making skills and the ability to create whether stationary or on the move."
Overview:
Leading up to the draft there has been plenty of drama in La La land. Showtime’s lead conductor is back at the helm and whether you like the move to ship out D’Angelo Russell or not it was smart. Russell never completely took to his role whether that falls on the youngster or circumstance. A change of scenery will do him good and landing with the steadying forces of Sean Marks and Kenny Atkinson will serve him well.
And, regardless of whether it pays dividends immediately or not, Magic Johnson got rid of the albatross Timofey Mozgov salary. Taking back Brook Lopez is a short-term situation with a long-term gain. He’ll be a free agent at next season’s end opening valuable cap space at precisely the time LA will be hunting to add not one, but two superstars.