Shelvin Mack, PG, Utah Jazz
Depending on what happens this offseason, the Lakers could be in need of a backup point guard. D’Angelo Russell has the starting job locked down, but there’s no guarantee Tyler Ennis re-signs. If that’s the case, Los Angeles could look to sign a notable name like Shelvin Mack.
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Mack is no star in the making, but the Lakers don’t need him to be. What they need is a sparkplug off the bench who can drain jumpers and provide some playmaking capabilities. That’s exactly what this 2011 second round pick brings to the table. He pitched in 7.8 points and 2.8 assists per game for the Utah Jazz during the 2016-17 regular season while serving as one of the team’s top backup guards.
What’s better is he won’t be too expensive. With a number of capable point guards set to hit the open market, Mack is sure to have to sign a discount contract with his next team. He made just over $2.4 million with the Jazz this past season, and shouldn’t warrant a huge raise on the open market.
The Lakers need to find more capable scorers off the bench. I can assure you that Mack certainly fits the bill, especially as a decent threat from behind the arch. If Ennis isn’t back in the mix next season, Mack would be a terrific backup option for the Purple and Gold.