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Lakers: 3 defensive guards to sign with Avery Bradley opting out

By Justin Hickey

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - MARCH 01: Avery Bradley #11 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half at the Smoothie King Center on March 01, 2020 in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - MARCH 01: Avery Bradley #11 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half at the Smoothie King Center on March 01, 2020 in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /
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1. Andre Roberson

This is by far the biggest boom or bust potential signing on this list. But it’s one that can be done most likely on the veteran minimum. So if it works out, it’s a steal of a deal, if it doesn’t he’s an end of bench piece giving defensive knowledge to the young guys.

Andre Roberson up until 2018 was one of, if not, the best defensive guard in basketball. His injury in 2018 derailed the Oklahoma City Thunder defense. Which ultimately caused tensions between the Russell Westbrook, Paul George and Carmelo Anthony trio.

Roberson guarded the best players in basketball and his defensive IQ is elite. He knows when to go under or over screens, he can guard multiple positions and he is good with communication. Before his injury, he had the best lateral quickness on any guard in basketball, that’s what made him so good.

James Harden has never struggled so much when he had Roberson guard him. You could see the frustration build up for Harden.

In the 2016-17 season, Roberson had 3.1 defensive win shares and a 1.4 DBPM. He was second-team All-Defense. In 2017-18 he was having the best defensive season of his career and was easily on track for first-team All-Defense.

He won’t provide any shooting for the team. But he is a very good cutter and will benefit from a lot of space. On a veteran minimum contract, he is worth the gamble.

Why the Lakers won't trade for George Hill. dark. Next

Getting back to just 75% health he would still provide defensive value on the floor. Regardless his IQ can help by talking to players.

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