Lakers News: Lakers Reach Out to Lance Stephenson
By Mike Garcia
Lance Stephenson turned down a deal from the Indiana Pacers. Slam Magazine reported that the contract was worth $44 million over 5 years.
"Several clubs have reached out to Stephenson’s agent, Alberto Ebanks, to register their interest, most notably the Los Angeles Lakers and Chicago Bulls, according to sources.Michael Jordan and the Charlotte Hornets also have interest in Stephenson.While money is a factor, Stephenson will not simply go to the highest bidder, sources said. He wants to go to a team that is either a contender or a competitive up-and-coming club. – Slam Magazine"
The Lakers may be able to make Lance Stephenson a more competitive offer. The offer made the Pacers was a fair one. He may not carry a franchise on his own, but he’s an excellent piece to help out on both ends of the floor. There are question marks about Lance Stephenson’s maturity. They have been well documented prior to his draft back in 2010. He has developed his game both on and off-the-floor, but same might say his maturity regressed. His behavior started coming out against the Miami Heat most recently, whether it was to frustrate LeBron James, blow into his ear, or get a technical for taunting after his own 3-point play.
Lance Stephenson offers a rare talent. He’s able to successfully create plays like a point guard and breakdown his man off-the-dribble. There’s no question he had 1st round talent out of his draft, but the question marks off-the-floor have remained unanswered. Once can hope that once he has his payday, that he’s able to shape up and be the player who maximizes his talent and leads by example.
His flare for the game also fits the Los Angeles style of play. He may not be the most explosive player, but his physical tools, namely his hands and wingspan, give him an advantage over defenders that he is able to exploit.
Maybe, he’d be the ideal combo guard next to Kobe Bryant.