After Carmelo, What is Lakers’ Plan B?
By Jacob Rude
Resigning Lakers
Much like the rest of free agency, the Lakers have put on hold the act of resigning their own free agents. As a result, Jodie Meeks, Chris Kaman, and Jordan Farmar grew impatient and went on to greener pastures. However, the likes of Kent Bazemore, Xavier Henry, Jordan Hill, Nick Young and Pau Gasol are all waiting for the chips to fall.
Gasol is all but gone if the Lakers swing and miss on Anthony, In search of a contender, the Lakers will not be enough of one without Melo. The best recruiting tool the Lakers have if they’re truly interested in bringing back Gasol is Bryant, who has had a great relationship with the big man since they were brought together in 2008.
Swaggy P is looking for a long-term commitment as well as a pay raise from last year’s salary. Given his play last season and becoming one of the fan favorites, it’ll be hard for the Lakers to let him go, but it’s likely he’ll price his way out of Los Angeles.
For the remaining three, the Lakers likely will look at bringing back their young talent. Bazemore has drawn interest from around the league and seems the most likely to one to move on. Henry, however, has not drawn quite the same interest level, likely due to the injuries he suffered last year. Considering the scarcity of the big man market, Hill will likely be in line for a big payday and a promise of starting, both of which L.A. can provide.
The option to also waive and stretch Nash’s contract is out there, but is unlikely if they don’t land Anthony.
Likely signings: Henry, Hill