Dion Waiters has had a rough couple of years, but his career was in shambles this NBA season. Most know how the 28-year-old was suspended thrice with the Miami Heat, but it appears he is ready to rectify all of those and move forward. The only question now is whether his fresh start will come with the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Los Angeles Lakers hosted a workout for Waiters Monday after creating an open roster spot. The Lakers waived Troy Daniels recently, and the name of the fourth pick of the 2012 NBA Draft surfaced as a potential replacement. However, Waiters needs to create a good impression with reports that J.R. Smith is also being considered.
Waiters brought in plenty of questions with his off-court issues with the Heat. In an effort to set records straight, Shams Charania of The Athletic reports that the 6-foot-3 guard owned up to his mistakes and errors while he was still in South Beach. Now, it will be interesting if doing so will help his chances of donning the purple and gold jersey.
Someone who could influence the choice of the Lakers for the last roster spot is LeBron James. Both were former teammates of The King when they were still with the Cleveland Cavaliers. James played with Waiters during the 2014-15 NBA season and Smith from 2015-2018. Smith was part of the Cavs champion team in 2016 but is unforgettably known for that infamous boo-boo during the 2017-18 NBA Finals.
Waiters have a slight advantage over Smith. The 28-year-old guard has played three games this season while Smith has been out of action for over a year now. If conditioning is to be the basis, there is no doubt that Waiters has an advantage over the controversial swingman.
Originally, the Lakers were keen on signing a playmaker to ease the burden off James. But with no worthy point guard available, the three-time NBA champion is expected to call the shots on the floor. In doing so, the Lakers need more scoring options for James to dish of too. Both are certified shooters, but endurance is now in play.
To his credit, Waiters averaged 9.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and an assist. Though it may not be much, the 6-foot-3 shooting guard showed that he could contribute offensively when given the chance. As of this writing, the Lakers have yet to decide on who between the two to pick up.
