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Los Angeles Lakers: Grading the Michael Beasley signing

By Audel Del Toro

NEW YORK, NY - MARCH 23: Michael Beasley #8 of the New York Knicks looks on during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on March 23, 2018 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - MARCH 23: Michael Beasley #8 of the New York Knicks looks on during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on March 23, 2018 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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How did the deal between the Los Angeles Lakers and Michael Beasley grade out?

On Friday afternoon the Los Angeles Lakers agreed to terms with another unique personality to join Lance Stephenson, JaVale McGee, Rajon Rondo and the King LeBron James. The team agreed to sign free-agent forward Michael Beasley to a 1 year deal worth $3.5 million according to Chris Haynes of ESPN.com.

Although Beasley has changed his attitude on and off the court, the move still comes as a surprise. If the rumor of LeBron playing center in a small ball lineup is true then that opens up some time for Beasley at the forward position.

Last season in New York, Beasley made 74 appearances. Beasley averaged 13.2 points per game 5.6 rebounds and 1.7 assists in 22.3 minutes per game.

One of the things Beasley did very well last season was score the basketball, which is probably the main reason he was signed by the Lakers. Beasley has worked hard to repair his image, but don’t expect him to be a mentor to any of the young Los Angeles Lakers players.

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Beasley has established himself as a good 3-point shooter the past few seasons, shooting 41 percent with the Milwaukee Bucks and 39 percent last season with the New York Knicks. This is great news for the Lakers who allegedly do not have any “shooters” on the team to stretch the floor. 

Last season, Beasley also had an outstanding per 36 minute average of 21.0 points and 9.0 rebounds. At 6-foot-9 and only 29 years old, Beasley figures to be in the prime of his career. This upcoming season with the Lakers might be his best season yet.

Beasley was drafted with the 2nd overall pick by the Miami Heat back in 2008. He never really established himself as one of the top players in the league after being drafted so high in 2008.

During his 10 seasons in the NBA, he averaged 12.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.3 assists. One of the positive impacts Beasley will have on this Lakers team is he will have team chemistry with Lebron James.

James and Beasley were both on the same team in Miami during the 2013-2014 season. He also brings more playoff and NBA Finals experience. In addition to playing with Lebron James, Beasley is also good friends with JaVale McGee. 

JaVale McGee on the Lakers signing Michael Beasley: “He’s going to have a huge impact on the team. He’s a long guy and a pure scorer and he’s a great guy. I’m actually good friends with Michael Beasley and the fact that he’s coming now, this season is going to be amazing.” (Via Arash Markazi of ESPN)

Many might question the Lakers’ offseason moves but like Magic Johnson continues to preach to the fans and the media he is bringing in winners and tough guys.

Beasley sure seems to fit the tough guy role. Expect Beasley to be a rotational player who will come off the bench and get buckets for the Lakers next season.

Next: 10 Greatest Free Agent Signings In Lakers History

Grade: B

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