Los Angeles Lakers: Predicting starting lineup and rotation
By Dan Lovi
No. 9: Michael Beasley
Michael Beasley is coming off his best season in the last seven years, playing in 74 games for the New York Knicks, including 30 starts. He averaged13.2 points and 5.6 rebounds per game while shooting 50.7 percent from the field.
Beasley isn’t a prolific 3-point shooter, he only attempted 86 last year, but he did make 34 of them at a respectable 39.5 percent clip.
The former No. 2 pick back in 2008, Beasley has always had the talent, but lacked consistency. Aside from last year, his best seasons came in his first three years in the league.
Beasley’s offensive talent alone is enough to add him to the roster for a reported one-year, $3.5 million deal. He could provide a spark off the bench, especially on nights when the Lakers are trailing and need buckets quickly.
He also played one season with James, who agrees that Beasley is gifted on the basketball court.
LeBron James played a season with Michael Beasley in Miami. They had no major issues & LeBron said he respected Beasley's talent. I mean Erik Spoelstra decided Beas was unplayable in the postseason due to defensive lapses. But in fairness I don't recall him forgetting the score.
— Brian Windhorst (@WindhorstESPN) July 20, 2018
Defense is the sore spot on Beasley’s resume, and Walton will use him situationally. He’ll play less when the Lakers have big leads and play more when they need to score.