The Los Angeles Lakers have been terrible in their last four playoff series against the Memphis Grizzlies. The Memphis side has been lacking some of their good names in the roster, and even then, LA has not shown one-sided domination. It raises many questions on the Ham’s side whether they would have endured the Grizzlies squad at full power. Moreover, LeBron James’ side had all the players as they all are healthy. But they are still playing like they are facing some issues. The team did an incredible job in the regular season but has struggled a lot in the playoffs.
One of many reasons could be the resting factor which the Lakers players have not received much at the end of the season. They have been playing relentlessly at playing high intensity as they approached the end of the season. The major load of this sophisticated season has been on the superstar duo. The two have burdened the load of the team, unlike any other player, as it all depended on LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Apart from the fatigue and injuries, there are many more reasons for the Lakers’ trouble this year.
Lakers Facing Point Guard Problem
The purple and gold brigade have suffered massively because of a much-needed quality point guard. Russell Westbrook began the season as the Lakers point guard but is playing in the Clippers. With the amount of criticism and hate that he received, it was inevitable that he would be replaced sooner or later. However, when D’Angelo Russell replaced him, it felt like they had found a perfect match. But as time went by and things got harder, he is now facing difficulties in the team. Considering the $31.3 million he receives as a salary, he is not playing at that level.
The 26-year-old point guard is averaging only 13.8 points, 6.2 assists, and four rebounds in every game. Alongside him, there is another point guard Dennis Schroder who has also been disappointing at the same level. He is averaging only 5.2 points, 2.1 assists, and one steal. He was doing fine in the regular season, but he has been terrible in the playoff series against the Grizzlies.
The Lakers must consider some new point guards in the summer for their upcoming future.
1. D’Angelo Russell
D’Lo has been a bad playoff player, but he was terrific in the regular season when the Lakers first acquired him. He is a solid passer, and he also has a size above average for rebounds. Moreover, he is good on and off the ball, which makes him a worthwhile prospect.
2. Gabe Vincent
Long-range shooting has been a major problem for LA this year. So they can go for Gabe Vincent, who has been a terrific shot-maker. He has been proving his worth in the postseason with Miami Heat this year. His long-range abilities definitely compensate for his playmaking skills. Moreover, he can also be cheap addition for the Lakers to upgrade Malik Beasley.
3. Jordan Clarkson
Jordan Clarkson is more of an off-guard rather than a traditional point guard in the NBA. He could be very beneficial for the Lakers, considering how much LeBron likes to control the ball. LA can also receive him at a very reasonable rate of $15-18 million.
4. James Harden
The Lakers will have to think long and hard for this one because Harden is 33 years old and has a tendency to choke in the big moments. However, he has also been one of the best on his good days. But the only problem is he will not come cheap to LA as he holds a high value in the league.
5. Fred Vanvleet
Fred Vanvleet is a two-way point guard and a one-time All-star with evidence of playoff performances. Although he is a bit undersized, he is not afraid to latch on to his moments. He could cost around $85 million for four which makes him a cheaper option than Harden and Russell.