Lakers: 5 reasons why Maurice Harkless is a great free agent target
By Robert Marvi
4. He’s athletic
The Los Angeles Lakers’ active, full-court style of play requires athletic players, and Harkless would certainly fit the bill.
He has hops, as evidenced by his 37-inch vertical leap, and he runs the floor and covers space pretty well. Even better, he stands at nearly 6-foot-9 and has a solid wingspan of 7-feet.
These abilities allow him to be active all over the floor on both ends of the floor and make plays.
It also allows him to get out on the break and finish strong. Percentage-wise, he’s a very good finisher around the rim, not just in transition, but also in the halfcourt.
Imagine James finding Harkless for easy baskets downcourt on the break, on lobs and when he cuts to the hoop.
Having athletic wings is of the utmost importance when you’re a fast-break team like the Lakers.
Think about the Showtime teams from the 1980s and how a player like James Worthy, with his world-class speed up and down the court, really made their fast-break lit.
To get a visual idea of how Harkless’ physical talents would help the Lakers, check out this highlight video of him in action: