Lake Show Life
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Los Angeles Lakers: 3 key needs that still need to be addressed

By Daniel Preciado

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 04: Dwight Howard #39 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the first half against the Miami Heat in Game Three of the 2020 NBA Finals at AdventHealth Arena at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on October 04, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. 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 Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 04: Dwight Howard #39 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the first half against the Miami Heat in Game Three of the 2020 NBA Finals at AdventHealth Arena at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on October 04, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. 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 Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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Los Angeles Lakers
Rajon Rondo #9 of the Los Angeles Lakers (Photo by John McCoy/Getty Images) /

Facilitator

The Los Angeles Lakers spent most of the 2019-2020 season starting LeBron James at point guard and while it was largely effective, it should not be the long-term plan. LeBron is still at the top of his game and led the league in assists last season, but he is getting older. The Lakers will want him to stay at the top of his game for the duration of his contract.

Rajon Rondo acted as the Lakers’ secondary ball-handler and someone who was capable of running the offense in LeBron James’ stead. Avery Bradley also demonstrated the ability to play some minutes at point guard.

This would be great if Rondo and Bradley were still in uniform, but they are not. Rajon Rondo moved on to the Atlanta Hawks and Avery Bradley went on to play for the Miami Heat.

Getting Dennis Schroder via trade was a very good move on Rob Pelinka’s part as it mitigates the loss, but Schroder can’t be on the floor for 48 minutes a night.

Alex Caruso is an intriguing option to get minutes at the one, but the most optimal usage of him is as a two-guard and secondary ball handler. The Lakers also recently waived point guard Quinn Cook, even further cutting down on their NBA-level options to play point guard minutes.

The Lakers as of right now are set to give LeBron James heavy minutes as the point guard with Dennis Schroder also receiving a good amount. However, having a third guy behind both of them is important.

Guys like Shaquille Harrison who Lake Show Life writer Justin Hickey profiled, Reggie Jackson, and Shabazz Napier could fit the bill.

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