The Los Angeles Lakers recently acquired Isaiah Thomas from the Cleveland Cavaliers. Here are three reasons why he can help them make the playoffs.
Before the NBA Trade Deadline, the Los Angeles Lakers pulled off arguably the biggest deal of the day. The Lakers were able to accomplish two of the main goals in the deal with the Cavaliers, as they were able to get back expiring contracts to clear cap space, and they also received a first-round pick.
Coming into the season, the Lakers made it very clear that they wanted to create enough cap space in order to sign two max free agents. With the trading of Clarkson and Nance Jr, they were able to get that done. Now, the Lakers will be in a position to be major players in free agency, but they still have hopes to make the playoffs.
While trading Jordan Clarkson and Larry Nance Jr. was a tough blow for fans, they did get a player that has the potential to have a major impact on the team for the rest of the season. For the last month and change, the Lakers have had one of the best records in the NBA. Despite struggling for chunks this season, a playoff spot is not out of the reach for the Lakers.
The additions of Isaiah Thomas and Channing Frye certainly shake up the roster, as both Clarkson and Nance played big roles for the Lakers off the bench. However, this deal does have the potential to help the Lakers for the rest of the season.
While Thomas was struggling for the Cavaliers coming off hip surgery, he was an MVP candidate for the Boston Celtics last season. If he gets healthy and plays at that level, the Lakers could see their chances of making the playoffs improve.
Here are three reasons why Thomas can help the Lakers make the playoffs.