Los Angeles Lakers: How will Lance Stephenson fit in next year?
The verdict
The addition of Lance Stephenson creates an interesting influx of guards on contract for the 2018-19 season. Along with Stephenson, the Lakers will also have Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart, Rajon Rondo, Josh Hart and rookie Svi Mykhailiuk in their backcourt. Ingram and Stephenson are both wildcards given their versatility, but still, it could be hard finding playing time for everybody.
Stephenson’s veteran experience could come in handy from a winning perspective, but there’s plenty of youth and upside to develop. Kyle Kuzma and Josh Hart put up solid numbers despite being in their rookie seasons. It’d be a shame to bury them on the bench when they have talent that can be utilized.
Next: 2018 NBA free agency tracker: Grades for every deal so far
Given the amount of versatility at their disposal, the Lakers shouldn’t have a hard time finding a way to make it work. After all, LeBron James is a player that has been to eight straight NBA Finals for a reason. Considering what the King brings to the table, Stephenson will have to find a role as a knockdown shooter and defensive-stopper off the bench or he could find himself limited on playing time.