Los Angeles Lakers: 2016 Offseason Grades

Signing Luol Deng

While the Lakers somewhat bombed their first move of free agency, their second one was met with a much more positive reaction.

By signing veteran forward Luol Deng to a four-year, $72 million deal, the Lakers add a player who will bring a strong veteran presence to their locker room as well as defensive prowess and offensive versatility on the court.

The 31-year-old Deng had a resurgence of sorts last season with the Miami Heat, posting averages of 15.2 points, 8.1 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game and shooting 48.4 percent from the field while playing major minutes at the power forward spot in the absence of All-Star Chris Bosh.

On offense, Deng still possesses a tremendous slashing ability and is an excellent spot-up shooter, knocking down three-pointers at a 34.4 percent clip last season.

His ability to play both forward positions will go a long way in Luke Walton’s Warrior-like offense, where he could be cast into a role similar to that of Andre Iguodala’s as a player who could either serve as the facilitator for the bench unit or as the starting 3 or 4 alongside Ingram and Randle in smaller lineups.

However, his most valuable asset may be his defensive prowess, as Deng has long been regarded as one of the elite perimeter defenders in the NBA.

Some have expressed concerns regarding the length of Deng’s contract with him turning 31 this year, but the signing checks out as it fills some major voids for this Lakers team on and off the court.

Grade: B 

Next: Bringing Back JC