The Los Angeles Lakers guard, Avery Bradley, has decided to end the return to end the season in the Orlando bubble out of concern for his son’s health.
For this reason, rumors are quickly circulating about a possible replacement for Bradley, as the Lakers have been allowed to sign someone since he made this decision. The first name that appears to be a likely replacement is veteran security guard JR Smith, whom the Lakers had previously worked out when they considered adding players during the season.
Smith has reportedly worked with some Lakers players during the break, and is apparently familiar with superstar LeBron James. But Smith isn’t the only flashy, outspoken veteran security guard with ties to the Lakers.
Nick Young wasn’t in the league this season, but was open about wanting to return on social media. With an opportunity to showcase himself with his former team, Young made it clear on ESPN NBA Twitter that he was ready when the Lakers needed him:
. @ NickSwagyPYoung is ready when the Lakers need him in Orlando ???? pic.twitter.com/9KlvrSRd7M
– NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) June 24, 2020
Young brings many of the same things on the table as Smith. Young’s strength is shooting, as he is a 37.6% three-point shooter and has had the best seasons of his career with the Lakers. In four seasons with LA, Young scored an average of 13.1 points, while hitting 37.7% from the bottom in almost six attempts per game.
In addition, Young has championship experience and helps the Golden State Warriors win a title in 2018, but admittedly doesn’t play nearly the role that Smith played at the Cavaliers in 2016. Regardless, Young is someone who has shooting and championship experience and is not afraid of the league’s largest stage.
When Young is in basketball shape, he definitely checks many of the boxes the Lakers are looking for in a possible Bradley replacement. The Lakers want to do a championship run on this return, and any player the team would bring in should be able to help with that run. Young is someone who has the potential to play that role, and there are certainly far worse options.
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