Los Angeles Lakers: Pass or pursue on 10 marquee free agents

Sep 27, 2019; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka answers a question during the Lakers media day at the UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo, CA. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 27, 2019; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka answers a question during the Lakers media day at the UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo, CA. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
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(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers
(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers

Meyers Leonard: Pursue

Another option from South Beach.

Meyers Leonard has never been a great player, but one who has given his contribution when requested in critical moments. The Los Angeles Lakers saw it first hand in the NBA Finals, when he was called to replace the injured Bam Adebayo in the Miami Heat’s lineup. And he proved it several times between Portland and Miami.

Leonard is the typical hard-worker who can provide solid minutes without sporting outstanding stats. If given regular playing time he will contribute with steady numbers and intangibles. If seated on the bench for long stretches, he will be on the frontline to cheer for his teammates and push the team to give its best effort.

The ultimate attitude guy, whose only purpose is winning. Throughout his career, full of ups and downs, he never complained but always supported his team. That is the character the Lakers want in their locker room. If Markieff Morris should not be re-signed, Leonard would be a great replacement to keep an eye on.

His three-point shooting, allowing him to also play the stretch-five, would make him a great fit for the Lakers’ rotations, and he would not command a big amount of money, making him a realistic target given their contract situation.