Next Moves.....Deron Williams & Kendall Marshall
Looks like the Lakers have three roster spots left, and one two-way contract left to fill.
Magic & Pelinka mentioned adding a veteran point guard to help mentor Lonzo Ball, while helping the Lakers 2nd unit.
Here's what I am hoping happens:
1. Deron Williams
Sign Deron Williams with our 2017 "room exception. (roughly $4.3M)
He'd be a great mentor for 'Zo.
Williams was a top 5 All Star PG for a 5-6 year stretch during his career with Utah. And he is a big combo PG with handles, decent passing ability, PnR mastery and a strong 3 point stroke.
Had a rough go of it during the 2017 Finals, but that has no bearing on his ability to show Zo the tricks of the trade on court and how to be a pro off the court.
2. Kendall Marshall
Sign Kendall Marshall to the veteran's minimum. (roughly $1.5M)
I would love to see Kendall fill the third PG role.
He would be a fantastic third PG as he is good enough to play rotation minutes if there is an injury and typically plays bigger than expected when given the opportunity.
He had a strong season as a Laker several years ago. And recently dropped 11 assists of our Summer League Team while playing for the Clippers.
He is a crafty left handed passer & player. And could be a strong 2nd mentor to Zo.
3. Thomas Bryant
Sign Thomas Bryant to a rookie contract. ($874K-$1.035M)
Try to lock him up for 3-4 years on the cheap, like we did with Ivica Zubac.
I love his energy.
And I can"t help but imagine him as a 6'10" version of Draymond Green...3-4 seasons down the road.
4. P.J. Dozier
Sign P.J. Dozier to the other 2nd two-way contract. ($275K)
This kid has strong potential as a versatile, perimeter player who can play the 1,2 or 3.
Should be good on both sides of the ball.
Just needs to sharpen his all around shooting, especially his 3 point shooting.
Reminds me of a young Brian Shaw. Just needs a year or so grooming in the G-League.
Could work out to be our version of a 1st round pick in next year's draft since we have no picks in 2018.
Thoughts??