NBA rumors: Lakers eyeing reinforcements in the form of a 10-year NBA veteran

Usually, NBA rumors begin to cool down as the regular-season begins, but not this year. It appears like the Los Angeles Lakers, coming off difficult losses to Pacific Division rivals, are looking at a free-agent signing to improve their depth. According to NBA Insider Shams Charania, the Lakers hosted 10-year NBA veteran Maurice ‘Moe’ Harkless for an interview and workout this week.

“Sources tell me the Lakers are considering a potential signing to bolster their wing and frontcourt depth, and Harkless, who was waived by Houston in training camp, is among the top available players on the open market,” Charania claimed.

Harkless, who has been in the league for 10 seasons, has been an impact role player for several playoff teams throughout his career. Still just 29, the New York City native played 73 games across two seasons for the Sacramento Kings most recently.

NBA Rumors: Moe Harkless adds position versatility to the Lakers lineup.

Standing at 6-foot-7 with a 7-foot-2 wingspan, Harkless has the physical profile of an influential defender across multiple positions. He was a net-positive for an up-and-down Kings team during his year and a half in northern California but bounced around the league as a trade chip during the offseason. Now, he’s looking to make a splash on a competitive team where he can rebuild his value and prove that he’s still a winning rotation player.

Unfortunately, Harkless doesn’t quite address the team’s biggest need: 3-point shooting. Los Angeles is shooting an abysmal 22.4% from deep through two games. That won’t stop them from taking these shots either as the Lakers launched 40 triples in their first loss and 45 in their second. Harkless, a career 32% shooter from 3-point land, has only connected on 35% of his deep shots three times in 10 years and hasn’t done it since 2017-18.

Even with that being the case, Harkless would be able to leave his mark on the team with smart cutting, off-ball movement, passing within the flow of an offense and hustle. Plus, the Lakers have proven themselves to be a great landing spot for players hoping to re-establish themselves. Last year, combo guard Malik Monk had a breakout season that netted him a big contract. This season, fifth-year guard Lonnie Walker IV is making waves after failing to meet expectations in San Antonio. Although they were younger than Harkless, the same approach applies.

Expect the Lakers to waive or trade another player if they decide to sign Harkless.