The Los Angeles Lakers have added various new players to the trade market but still need more help. LA’s roster construction has been in dire need of fixing since the last time they lifted the title in 2020. Rob Pelinka, the general manager, did an incredible job of slightly improving when they had a chance in the trade market. However, the team still lacks shooting from the distance as they have had a problem since the season began. And there could be some players in the buyout market that could help improve.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski, the 6’6” shooting guard/small forward Will Barton is set to become a free agent in the market. Reports suggest that the veteran’s buyout clause has reached out and is available for other teams to sign. And one of the most prominent buyers of Will Barton seems to be the Los Angeles Lakers. Apparently, Purple and Gold still need more players to make them a stable postseason team. But the condition is they reach the top 10 in the table to qualify for the playoff spot. Otherwise, the trade made before the deadline could turn out to be just a waste of time.
The Lakers Need Shooters In The Team
It has been a while since LA enjoyed a good game of shooting from outside the arc. However, it is a good thing that they are still looking for solutions in the market, and there could be one way out. Will Barton is a 32-year-old veteran who plays the same position as LeBron James and is available in the buyout market. And he could be the next target that the 2020 champs could have in order to improve their shooting. However, Barton is an important asset, and many other playoff contenders would want him on their teams.
Although he would seem like an overqualified 3-point shooter for his past deeds in the league, he is a good substitute for James. Whenever the Lakers lose Anthony Davis because of his injury, they have to push LeBron in overdrive. And it has been a problem since the start because of his aging body, which should be preserved. It is remarkable that the 38-year-old pushes his body to remarkable heights, but it also makes him prone to different injuries. And losing him could mean losing the postseason if they even qualify for the playoff spot at the end.
For the time being, there are no reports that suggest any interest in Will Barton apart from the Lakers. And if they go through with the move, it could mean a drastic improvement in the roster. In his 40 healthy games until now, he is averaging 7.7 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists. And shooting from a distance with a 38% accuracy with 3.4 attempts every night.
