Authors of a flashy recruitment last fall, the Lakers have not yet really reaped the benefits. This summer, Californians could take inspiration from Brooklyn, and recruit an X factor through the buy out market. Five players in particular should be in their sights.
Last March, the Nets hit hard by picking up Blake Griffin, who had just negotiated a buyout with Detroit. The contribution of the interior has proved very valuable so far in the playoffs, and its leaders do not have to regret the bet. With 11 players free this summer, the Lakers may well be tempted to make a similar move. Here are the names that might grab their attention:
John Wall (Rockets)
What Frank Vogel missed sorely during the absence of LeBron James, he is a chief distributor, able to direct the game by his passes. John Wall has multiplied seasons to 9-10 assists since his draft, and is likely to be cut by Houston this summer. If he needs the pump a lot, he would at least allow the King to have a more than solid understudy as a conductor. Its contribution to scoring would also be a bonus.
Kevin Love (Cavaliers)
Kevin Love was born in Santa Monica, played college for UCLA, and was LeBron James’ teammate in Cleveland. On paper, the association seems obvious. More and more frustrated at the Cavs, the interior could want to get closer to the house, moreover if he can replay the title. The 2016 champion has a (very) good chance of being cut, and his skill from afar to prove useful in Anthony Davis’ rotation.
Steven Adams (Pelicans)
The departure of Dwight Howard in the last offseason has done more damage than expected to the Purple and Gold racket, which was left without a daron under the circles. Andre Drummond and Marc Gasol did not convince, and reinforcement will be necessary at the pivot position. Steven Adams ticks all the boxes: extremely hard on the touch, good defender and model teammate. Its screens could also be very valuable in a pick & roll situation.
Al Horford (Thunder)
Team player par excellence and with a huge basketball IQ, Al Horford has imparted his knowledge to the young Thunder squad throughout the season. Now, the former All-Star might want to take his last chance to get a ring, he who is 35 years old. His qualities in the cast would allow LeBron to have less offensive responsibilities, and he still brings great science to the game in defense. A potential factor X which is not unlike Marc Gasol, in the end.
Cory Joseph (Pistons)
While clearly not the most high-sounding name on the list, Cory Joseph could be an interesting pickaxe, however. His contract with the Pistons is only guaranteed for $ 2.4 million next year, so he will be very easily guilty. From there, he could come to California, and thus bring his experience to the lead (663 NBA games). To top it off, unlike the candidates cited, he is accustomed to a role player status, which would allow him to integrate immediately into the workforce.
There should be plenty of players cut this summer, and some of these names are sure to intrigue the Lakers. The Nets showed how to do it well, Rob Pelinka and his staff to imitate them.
