The Los Angeles Lakers need to be careful and choose the right players to make up their team next season. There are a lot of players expected to try out the free-agent market and there is no assurance they can return. Among the names that could be gone include Rajon Rondo, Dwight Howard and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope.
Though these are guys that general manager Rob Pelinka could re-sign, the best approach is to perhaps check out other names in the free-agent market. With LeBron James and Anthony Davis leading the way, there are a lot of players out there who love to get that chance to win an NBA title. One of the curious unrestricted free agents is Jordan Clarkson.
Clarkson is coming off a stint with the Utah Jazz and made a good account of himself. He played in 42 games, averaging 15.9 points, 2.1 rebound and 1.6 assists.
Potential targets for Lakers this offseason include Jordan Clarkson, Nerlens Noel and D.J. Augustin: https://t.co/KX9r2cOdca — NBA Central (@TheNBACentral) October 17, 2020
Most know Clarkson’s story. He was a second-round pick in the 2014 NBA Draft but the Fil-American came out with an impressive performance for the Lakers that year. His run would be cut short after getting traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite playing behind LeBron James, the 28-year-old made the most out of his playing time and continued to be a factor.
Aside from the fact that he has already played with James, there is no denying that Clarkson is worthy of a second-coming to the Lakers. Adding him makes sense, considering the combo guard could address the point guard shortage coach Frank Vogel is trying to address.
The Lakers do have the bi-annual and mid-level exceptions to fill. Clarkson would be the ideal player to consider according to Bobby Marks of ESPN. But of course, he is not the only name the purple and gold can consider this offseason. Other notable names include Jeff Teague, D.J. Augustin, Maurice Harkless and Nerlens Noel.
Teague and Augustin are equally interesting to consider. But if the Lakers want someone who knows the Lakers’ culture, Clarkson would be the guy. Though he would need to adjust to the new system of Los Angeles, that should be a minor glitch.
Most know what the Lakers need, young and proven players who can align with the vision of the club. It could also prove rewarding for Clarkson, placing him in a position to win an NBA title with the same team where he started.
