ArenaPlus Exclusive: The Lakers’ Offseason Moves

Lakers Strengthen Their Backcourt

In the latest offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers have made significant moves to bolster their backcourt. Key signings and trades aim to provide depth and experience to their roster:

  • Signing of Dennis Schroder: The Lakers have re-acquired point guard Dennis Schroder to strengthen their guard rotation. Schroder’s return brings back his defensive prowess and playmaking ability. Last season, he averaged 15.4 points and 4.9 assists per game while playing for the Boston Celtics.
  • Trade for Russell Westbrook: The most talked-about move involved trading for veteran guard Russell Westbrook. This deal included sending Kyle Kuzma, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and Montrezl Harrell to the Washington Wizards. Westbrook’s addition is expected to provide the team with an explosive scoring option and rebounding guard. He averaged a triple-double with 22.2 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 11.7 assists last season.

By focusing on these strategic acquisitions, the Lakers aim to address their weaknesses and provide support to their superstar duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Revamping the Frontcourt

Adding more talent to the frontcourt, the Lakers signed and traded for new big men:

  • Dwight Howard Returns: Three-time Defensive Player of the Year Dwight Howard returns to the Lakers. Howard’s veteran presence and defensive capabilities will be critical in protecting the paint and providing valuable minutes off the bench. Last season, he averaged 7.0 points and 8.4 rebounds in limited minutes for the Philadelphia 76ers.
  • DeAndre Jordan Acquisition: The Lakers also signed DeAndre Jordan, who was waived by the Brooklyn Nets. Jordan’s experience and rebounding skills will add depth to the frontcourt. He averaged 7.5 points and 7.5 rebounds last season with the Nets.

These moves focus on improving the team’s defensive strength and securing more rebounds, an area needed for improvement.

Shooting and Spacing

In a modern NBA game emphasizing three-point shooting, the Lakers have made notable signings:

  • Acquiring Carmelo Anthony: Veteran forward Carmelo Anthony joined the Lakers on a one-year deal. Known for his scoring ability, Anthony averaged 13.4 points per game and shot 40.9% from three-point range last season with the Portland Trail Blazers.
  • Signing Malik Monk: The Lakers also signed young guard Malik Monk, who had a breakout season with the Charlotte Hornets. Monk averaged 11.7 points per game and shot 40.1% from beyond the arc.
  • Kendrick Nunn: The Lakers signed Miami Heat guard Kendrick Nunn, adding another shooter to their lineup. Nunn averaged 14.6 points per game and shot 38.1% from three-point range last season.

These acquisitions aim to provide the necessary shooting and floor-spacing around their key stars.

The successful combination of veteran talent and young stars sets the Lakers up for a promising season. For detailed analysis on the Lakers’ offseason, visit arenaplus.

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