The Los Angeles Lakers are going to have many players in free agency when this season comes to an end. And this season is already a massive roller coaster because of their bad start to the season. The records suggest that no team has ever qualified for the postseason with a 2-10 record at the start of the season. Hollywood has been so bad that even history is betting against them with such poor odds. However, the Lakers still have a decent shot at the postseason with Anthony Davis returning at the end of January.
The front office spent much of its time surrounding LeBron James and Anthony Davis with suitable support on the court. But the Lakers have failed to do so time in and time out. Meanwhile, the Lakers have let many crucial players leave such as Caruso and Malik Monk. But it looks like the Lakers have high hopes for their current undrafted young point guard Austin Reaves. He has been a great addition to the team since last year when he played 61 games averaging 7.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. The 24-year-old could have a future in Purple and Gold says Jake Fisher of Yahoo Sports. But there are problems associated with his stay keep reading to find out.
The Lakers Wanna Retain Their Young Point Guard
The 2020 champs made many roster management mistakes after winning the titles two years back. One such big signing was Russell Westbrook who did not work out last year as the team expected. And if Westbrook is going to see an exit door after this trade deadline the Lakers will have a hard time. But his contract expiration will give the Lakers a lot of opportunities to make places for new players in the team. Meanwhile, Austin Reaves has not been a bad signing for the team in the last two years. Although the team saw the face of disappointment for not qualifying for the playoffs, Reaves continued to do what he does best.
Austin has a great presence as he has the ability to make shots from the range with 36% accuracy. He becomes an important asset considering the Lakers’ weakness from the range. And this year his stats have been better with an average of 10.8 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists. Even his shooting is an absolute 48.8 percent from the field which makes him an important presence for the team. Reaves will be an important focal point after this year when the Lakers will focus on winning the title.
However, when Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura will make accommodations in the team it would pose problems for the front office. This would financial problems for the team and reluct their ability to bring an MVP-level player alongside King James and Anthony Davis. Although the problem has not yet been addressed by LA, his stay has been the priority for the Lakers.