Los Angeles Lakers: Pros and cons of keeping or signing 14 players

LAS VEGAS, NV - MARCH 08: Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott talks with Earvin "Magic" Johnson during the PAC-12 Men's Basketball Tournament game between the Stanford Cardinal and the UCLA Bruins on March 08, 2018 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, NV. (Photo by Chris Williams/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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Guards

• Lonzo Ball (probably the most widely-debated member of the Lakers core)

Pro: He showed fabulous court vision and an ability to get the ball to teammates in position to score. He was one of the best rebounding guards in the league, and his defense was a plus. Lonzo also has a strong desire to win, putting team results above individual stats. He will work on improving both his shooting and his conditioning. He’s still only 20 years old with a bright future.

Con: His shooting was too horrendous to ignore. He made less than half his free throws. The Lakers erred in picking him 2nd, and the sooner they can unload him, the better.

• Josh Hart

Pro: He was a most pleasant surprise. At first, it looked like he might be just a strong defender in the mold of Michael Cooper and Derek Fisher. Then he showed he could hit 3’s and was also one of their best finishers at the rim. Late in the season, he displayed a strong all-around offensive game. He represents yet another steal in the draft for the Lakers.

Con: He did show more skills than anyone anticipated. But his future is as a sixth man, and he is the least of the Lakers core. The team should include him as part of a package to get a star now.

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