Mar 27, 2014; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Xavier Henry (7) dunks the ball as Milwaukee Bucks guard
Giannis Antetokounmpo(34) defends during the first quarter at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
1. Xavier Henry
Henry is the incumbent, and still seems like the favorite to retain the job. Despite missing stretches last season with injury, Henry wowed fans with his dazzling dunks and athletic displays in Staples Center. At just 23 years old, Henry is still young and has a lot of room to grow. However, the injury concerns are there as he only played 43 games last season.
What makes Henry most appealing is that he’s cheap. Despite what could be considered a breakout season, Henry is going to remain a cheap option given those injury concerns. Offensively, Henry brings an ability to get to the rim that the Lakers certainly won’t lack with Lin and Bryant on the roster. However, he remains a work in progress and has lots of room to grow.
Given his familiarity with the team, Henry seems like the most likely player to get the job. With the Lakers looking to acquire young assets, Henry makes sense.