NBA Trade Rumors: Why Los Angeles Lakers Should Steer Clear of Kemba Walker

Defending champions Los Angeles Lakers had one of the most disappointing post-season runs this season. Despite having two MVP calibre players in LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers looked prime to succeed.

But injuries certainly detailed the defending champions’ season. With LeBron and AD missing significant time due to injuries, the Lakers hoped that their new supporting cast headlined by Dennis Schroder and Montrezl Harrell could gel up.

Jan 13, 2021; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) high fives guard Dennis Schroder (17) and center Marc Gasol (14) during a time out against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second half at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports

While the Lakers continued being a solid defensive team, their lack of shot creation was evident. This ultimately hurt the champions in the series against Suns. With Phoenix doubling LeBron and clogging up the lane, the Lakers offense stagnated.

Given the lack of a proper shot maker the Lakers have apart from Bron and AD, the off-season becomes a crucial time for the Purple and Gold to address their issues. According to latest reports, Rob Pelinka and Co. might be interested in bringing in former Celtics guard Kemba Walker.

#Lakers are reportedly expected to ‘sniff around’ on Kemba Walker this summer.https://t.co/rrG7ddGoVk pic.twitter.com/adR6WFbHHa

— Lakers Nation (@LakersNation) July 2, 2021

Walker who was in the Thunder for two seasons, the 26-year-old is a great offensive player and can also be a decent playmaker. Averaging 19.3 points, 4.9 assists and 4.0 rebounds per game.

Walker seems like a good addition on paper but it may not be as pretty as it seems. Take a look at why adding Kemba to the roster might be a questionable decision on Lakers’ part.

Why should the Lakers shouldn’t trade for Kemba Walker?

Kemba Walker was an electrifying guard in his prime. Be it his incredible scoring and his playmaking, the 30-year-old was a beast when he played for the Charlotte Hornets.

But ever since his trade to the Celtics, Walker suffered from multiple injuries. This was just the start of a tumultuous time for the guard. Missing a total of 45 games, in the last two seasons, Walker’s form took a hit. Despite coming back from injury last season, Kemba saw a massive dip in his numbers.

Given how inconsistent he has looked, Walker’s notorious injury history and streaky shooting lately, Lakers signing the guard might be massive risk after all. Another big issue for the Lakers will be the massive contract of Walker.

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Kemba who was at the peak of his powers, had signed a max contract and for the next two years is guaranteed for $70 million. Given that four players in Kyle Kuzma, Anthony Davis, LeBron James and Kentavious Caldwell Pope, take up $102 million, the Lakers would be willing to use the massive contract for another superstar.

But Kemba certainly isn’t a superstar in the league right now and will be a very big risk. While there is no denying that Kemba can make a comeback and put up big numbers, he is too big of a risk right now for a contending team.

If the 30-year ever is bought out, he can surely be a solid addition to the Lakers. But for now a trade should be a big no for the Lakers. Do you think the Lakers will trade for Kemba Walker?

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