The signing of LeBron James has understandably created enormous excitement in Lakers Land. But what is to be made of the other Los Angeles Lakers moves?
Magic Johnson accomplished his biggest goal when LeBron James agreed to join the Los Angeles Lakers organization. More than anything else, Johnson felt the need to bring a superstar to L.A. to help restore the team’s tarnished image and reinforce the Lakers brand as an elite NBA franchise.
Readers may recall the reservations expressed here about James’ continued durability and the possible negative impact he might have on the Lakers young core. But hopefully he continues to drink from the fountain of youth, and the returning youngsters adjust and learn from LeBron’s experience.
But what are we to make of the other moves that Magic and GM Rob Pelinka made- specifically the one-year deals with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Lance Stephenson, JaVale McGee and Rajon Rondo? Let’s look at each player, one-by-one:
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope– This is by far the best and most understandable signing. KCP had a solid season for the Lakers this past season, shooting 38 percent on 3’s, 47 percent on 2’s for a nearly 53 percent effective field goal percentage. He averaged 13 points per game and played excellent defense.
KCP also rebounded well from the backcourt (a career-high 5.2 RPG) and in general fit in well with his teammates. Based on other deals, they may have slightly overpaid for him at $12 million, but he fits a need at shooting guard, where he will likely return to the starting lineup and allow Josh Hart to bring his energy off the bench.