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Following a Disastrous Playoff Performance, Should the Los Angeles Lakers Re-Sign Dennis Schroder This Off-Season?

The Los Angeles Lakers were one of the biggest favorites to win the NBA championship this season. With a roster built around two superstars in Anthony Davis and LeBron James, the Purple and Gold who had conquered the Orlando bubble, looked set to repeat.

Replacing veterans like Rajon Rondo, Dwight Howard and JaVale McGee with players like Dennis Schroder and Montrezl Harrell, the Lake show looked set on paper. While Howard and McGee were decent off of the bench, the decision to not retain a veteran point guard in Rajon Rondo seemed rather puzzling.

Mar 31, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Dennis Schroder (17) passes the ball as Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) and forward Khris Middleton (22) defend in the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Given that Rondo probably was the third star the team needed in the playoffs, replacing the aging veteran was good on paper, but was questionable to a certain extent. Schroder meanwhile, who was the sixth man of the year candidate the previous season, also demanded a starting role taking the point guard role away from LeBron James.

READ MORE- Lakers’ Anthony Davis Reveals Why He is Not keen On Donning LeBron James’ #23 Jersey

While it was smooth sailing in the regular season, the post-season was a real letdown. Schroder who averaged 15.4 points, 5.8 assists and 3.5 rebounds per game, fell down to an average of 14.3 points, 3.0 rebounds and 2.8 assists.

While the dip does not seem that massive, the major concern was the German’s inconsistency. Given that Schroder had allegedly rejected a 4-year contract worth $84 million, should the Lakers re-sign the former Thunder guard?

Dennis Schroder demands big bags this free agency

Schroder has certainly been pretty adamant to sign a new contract at a reduced salary. Making it clear that an annual salary of $20 million is not feasible, the German believes he deserves much more.

According to a latest report, the 6’4″ guard has made it clear that he expects a pay-day of $100-120 million in this season’s free agency.

Report: Dennis Schroder ‘has communicated’ he wants $100M-$120M in free agency https://t.co/HjQ2RrohX4

— NBA Central (@TheNBACentral) June 30, 2021

If the German would have performed consistently in the playoffs, then this would have been a pretty easy decision for the defending champions. But Schroder inconsitent performances have raised some eyebrows.

With the free agency also presenting a handful of options, the Lakers might be stuck in a precarious situation. They certainly do not have enough picks to make a massive trade as well. Will the Lakers re-sign Schroder?

Why the Lakers might end up re-signing Schroder

The German guard certainly had a pretty disappointing season in the Staples center. Despite taking the starting role in the team, Schroder’s inconsistency and his questionable decision making was a big concern.

While re-signing Schroder might be a big risk, the Lakers might end up re-signing the German after all. Given the lack of trade pieces they have in their team, bringing back the German will certainly be boost.

Jan 18, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) is sandwiched between Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and Los Angeles Lakers guard Dennis Schroder (17) during the third quarter at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy: Reuters

Despite his performances, their is no denying the stock value of Schroder. The Lakers could use the 28-year-old to bring in a player like Kyle Lowry. Lowry who is a experienced veteran, is a proven performer in the playoffs.

Schroder along with another player might do the trick for the Lakers to bring in a much-needed third star in the world. What do you think after Lakers’ latest dilemma? Can the LeBron James and Anthony Davis led team build a competent roster and challenge for the title next season?

Watch this story – Anthony Davis, Jayson Tatum, & Others Who Took Mentorship from Kobe Bryant

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