The Lakers still have cap room. It seems highly unlikely that they’re going to use the remaining $7 million or so to land one key free agent. They may be able to find a few free agents to sign from the Vegas Pro League.
While the Lakers lost the free agent race with Carmelo Anthony, Chris Bosh, and Pau Gasol, they still need to focus on building a competitive team.
Apr 6, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Philadelphia 76ers shooting guard Justin Holiday (14) shoots over Miami Heat shooting guard Ray Allen (34) during the first half at the American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Last year, the Laker team was so far over the cap, the roster was filled with merry minimum players. Jodie Meeks, Xavier Henry, Nick Young, Wesley Johnson, and Kendall Marshall all did an excellent job and had great value per dollar. Jordan Farmar signed with the Clippers, but Nick Young and Kendall Marshall are on the squad next year. Xavier Henry seems likely to stay.
Before a house gets built, the foundation has to be made. That can be done with a solid core set of role players.
Here are five guys to watch leading up to the Vegas Pro League playoff weekend.