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NBA Free Agency: Report Reveals Veteran Free Agents Willing to Take Pay Cut to Join the Lakers
With the NBA season barely 3 months away, teams are looking to add firepower to their roster. This NBA off season includes some big names who can make huge impacts on the teams. One of the teams who will look to add stars is the Los Angeles Lakers. However, financial issues are keeping them under the water for signing the big names.
But, there is some good news for the Lakers. Many veteran free agents are willing to sign a minimum deal just to join the purple and gold. This opens up some huge doors for them because they are in desperate need of signing guards and playmakers.
Report: ‘A ton’ of veteran free agents are ready to sign minimum deals with the Lakers https://t.co/QBohLJJ5V9
— NBA Central (@TheNBACentral) July 28, 2021
So, with this huge news supporting the LeBron led organisation, who could the Lakers have their eyes on?
DeMar DeRozan thinks he can work with the Lakers
San Antonio Spurs’ DeMar DeRozan is the biggest name the Lakers could go for. On a recent episode of Club Shay Shay, he said that what matters to him now is winning a championship. In addition, he claimed that he had made all the money he could imagine through his career so he would take a pay cut to join LeBron James.
Moreover, he feels that he can work with LeBron and Anthony Davis. Although he is not a great shooter, DeRozan has the midrange game all figured out. He just came off a All-Star caliber season averaging 21 points, 4 rebounds and 7 assists while shooting 88% from the free throw line. He could add a third scoring option to the Lakers along with the playmaking they need.
Jan 1, 2021; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard DeMar DeRozan (10) calls for a timeout against Los Angeles Lakers guard Wesley Matthews (9) in the second half at the AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports
Derrick Rose
The veteran guard is coming off a successful season with the New York Knicks. He has embraced his role off the bench and provided some valuable buckets at times when it mattered. In addition, he knows how to keep the offense going which is what the Lakers are after.
May 30, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; New York Knicks guard Derrick Rose (4) warms up on the court prior to the game against the Atlanta Hawks in game four in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs. at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Rose averaged 19 points, 5 assist and 4 rebounds in the playoffs playing 35 minutes. Surprisingly, he did all this with just 1 turnover per game. Even though he fought through injuries all his career, he is still a player capable of delivering a lot to a team. Rose has developed a three point shot, is quick and one of the most skilled finishers at the rim. He could be a valuable piece for the Lakers.
Carmelo Anthony
LeBron James’ best friend, Carmelo Anthony could be a potential target for the Lakers this season. On many occasions he was the third scoring option in Portland, behind Dame and McCollum. However, with Portland not being a competing team, Melo may decide to leave to compete once and for all.
Feb 26, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Portland Trail Blazers forward Carmelo Anthony (00) is defended by Los Angeles Lakers guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (1) in the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The 37 year old knows how to put a basketball through the hoop. Coming off the bench, he is still a clutch bucket getter. Melo knows how to get to his spot and create his own offense. While he may not be a facilitator, he doesnt need anyone to rack up points to his name. He averaged 13 points and 3 rebounds while shooting 41% from three. He could make up for Kyle Kuzma if the Lakers decide to trade him this off season.
Dwight Howard back with the Lakers?
Former Laker, Dwight Howard could see his return back into the purple and gold. The Lakers will look for a big man with a frustrating Harell most likely opting out of his player option. He averaged 7 points and 8 rebounds or the 76ers this season.
Oct 9, 2020; Lake Buena Vista, Florida, USA; Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler (22) is fouled by Los Angeles Lakers center Dwight Howard (39) during the first quarter in game five of the 2020 NBA Finals at AdventHealth Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
In addition to his offence, it is Dwight’s defence that prevails. He could be the shot blocker along side Anthony Davis and strengthen LA’s defence. Moreover, his size allows him to finish alley oops and also grab important boards. He has already won a championship with the Lakers and could decide to run it back with them.
If they Lakers can land any of these players, their depth issues will surely be resolved. With James and Anthony Davis healthy next season, they are one of the favourites to reach the finals.
Who do you want to see join the Lakers? Let us know in the comments.
WATCH THIS STORY- Kyle Kuzma, Ben Simmons, and Other NBA Players Who Had a Forgetful 2020-21 Postseason
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