NBA Trades: 2 trades and 3 moves to help the Los Angeles Lakers on both ends

NBA Trades: 2 trades and 3 moves to help the Los Angeles Lakers on both ends: Re-sign Malik Monk

Although Malik Monk contributed to the Lakers defensive woes this season, he was still a rare individual positive in an otherwise disappointing season for the franchise. The former Hornet averaged a career-high 13.8 points, shot a career-high 47.3% from the field, and shot 39.1% from three-point range.

Those numbers may entice a team to offer Monk a contract the Lakers simply can’t match, however, he should still be considered a high priority for the Lakers to retain, if possible.

Heading into his sixth season, Monk is still on the rise and could foreseeably become one of the best sixth men in the league regardless of which team he’s on. An offensive scoring punch capable of playing 30 minutes a game, Monk could continue his ascension into a Jordan Clarkson-type mold.

NBA Trades: 2 trades and 3 moves to help the Los Angeles Lakers on both ends: Sign an experienced wing

One of the biggest issues for the Lakers was their lack of wing options and subsequent absence of lineup versatility. It’s something they need to rectify during the offseason, although it may appear difficult given their lack of cap space and question mark regarding championship contention.

Ideally, this wing would be capable of playing 15-25 minutes per game at either forward position. Playing alongside James, the player should be a competent open shooter who can be a serviceable defender.

Think of Otto Porter Jr. and what he provided for the Golden State Warriors in their championship run this season. Porter himself could be available, however, if he were to sign another one-year minimum deal, you’d expect it to be at the Warriors.

A more realistic option could be the injury-plagued TJ Warren, who like Porter before him, has had a torrid run with injuries over the past two seasons. His free agency will be a fascinating watch, with the possibility he follows Porter’s path in signing a one-year cheap deal to recoup his value for the following offseason.

If Warren does decide to follow that path, then the Lakers should put themselves well and truly in the frame. Again, a move fraught with danger and risk, but that’s the only reason you’ll get him on a cheap deal anyway.