Los Angeles Lakers: Michael Beasley doing whatever it takes to win

Los Angeles Lakers forward Michael Beasley hasn’t consistently been in the rotation, but he is accepting of his role and ready to do whatever it takes to help the team win.

The Los Angeles Lakers surprised a lot of people with their offseason acquisitions. After the signing of LeBron James, Magic Johnson and Rob Pelinka signed a supporting cast that raised more than a few eyebrows.

Castoffs and journeymen were who the Lakers targeted after James. JaVale McGee, Lance Stephenson, Rajon Rondo and Michael Beasley were signed. People continue to be surprised, as all of them have provided solid production, except for Beasley.

More often than not, Beasley has spent the entire game watching his teammates get to work on the court. The first 19 games of the season, Beasley appeared in only four of them, with nine minutes being his most played.

Beasley has gotten on the court now in four consecutive games, but it isn’t big minutes at all. He has played 13 minutes twice, nine in one and five in another.

It is a bit surprising he was unable to carve out a bigger role with the Lakers or land a better contract during free agency. Beasley put together a strong season with the New York Knicks in 2017-18 after signing for the league minimum.

Beasley averaged 13.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.7 assists in only 22.3 minutes per game. He filled in admirably for the injured Kristaps Porzingis and was a steady veteran presence for the Knicks.

More from Lake Show Life

There were some people that thought he could fill a similar role with the Lakers this season. That opportunity has not yet arisen, but Beasley is remaining ready and is willing to do whatever it takes to help the team win.

"“I stayed engaged the same way you [in the media] stayed engaged as a fan,” Beasley said. “I enjoy the game. I enjoy my teammates. God has granted me serenity a long time ago.”"

That serenity was most likely found during his basketball journey. Beasley never quite lived up to the pedigree of being the No. 2 overall pick in 2008, landing with the Miami Heat. He had some negatives attached to his name, ending up in China in 2014.

Beasley was dominant, taking home MVP honors during his second stint there for the 2015-16 season.

It is in China where Beasley said he learned to be an adult. That learning experience has helped him get to where he is today.

"“I just want to be here for my teammates,” Beasley said. “That’s what matters the most. We are all one team.”"

That may not be something the younger Beasley would have said. Now, knocking on the door of 30-years old, Beasley is a changed player and man from the experiences afforded to him during his basketball journey.

"“I enjoy life,” Beasley said. “I enjoy life. Basketball is my job and my livelihood, but it doesn’t define me.”"

Head Coach Luke Walton spoke highly of Beasley, as well. Everyone wants to get minutes and produce, but it is not conceivable for everyone to do it on a nightly basis. Walton touched on Beasley’s professionalism in that regard.

"“He’s a professional,” coach Luke Walton said. “I tell everyone on our team, everyone is going to help us win games at some point in the season so we all need to be ready. We have a deep team and some nights it’s going to be one guy and another night it’ll be someone else. And I think he’s done a nice job of continuing to work.”"

You know what you are going to get when Beasley is inserted into the lineup. If you need a basket, he can go and get it for you. He is an excellent rebounder and has shown the ability to be a playmaker as well.

While Beasley hasn’t helped out much yet this season, he has shown encouragement for his teammates while on the bench. At some point this season, whether it be because of an injury or rest needed for someone, Beasley will get his chance.

As we learned from these quotes, you can be sure Beasley will be ready to produce and do whatever it takes to help the team win.