Ian Clark
Of all the players on this list, the Lakers have been linked the most to Ian Clark. While the other players are people that could fit in with the Lakers theoretically, Clark is someone the Lakers have had their eye on for a while.
Clark and the Lakers finally had a meeting this week, as they were together for 45 minutes according to sources. Clark is reportedly someone that the Lakers have had their eye on since the start of free agency, but an offer was not made. The Lakers having interest makes a lot of sense.
Clark would check off everything the Lakers are looking for in their backcourt. He is a capable backup point guard. Clark can knock down three-pointers, as he is coming off a career season from deep. Most importantly, arguably, he would provide the veteran mentor the Lakers are looking for.
While Clark isn’t old by any means, he is only 26, he would bring a ton of experience along with him. Clark has spent the past two seasons with the Golden State Warriors, so he has been exposed to the postseason and high-intensity situations. He has learned how to win from being with the Warriors and has a familiarity with head coach Luke Walton.
Walton was on the Warriors staff for the first season that Clark was with the team. There wouldn’t be too much time needed to adjust to the system with the Lakers and he would help convey what Walton wants to do on the court
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With the $4.3 mid-level exception still available to use, the Lakers would be smart to offer it to Clark. He does virtually everything the team is looking for currently on their roster and should fit into their plans. Clark would be a good addition to the Lakers bench.