Los Angeles Lakers: 3 key needs that still need to be addressed
Wing Defender
While Danny Green was a huge disappointment in his one-year Los Angeles Lakers tenure, he still contributed some excellent wing defense. Green was statistically one of the best defenders in the entire league in the 2018-2019 season, according to Basketball Index.
The team also still retained Kentavious Caldwell-Pope who has shown to be at least an average defender, but his defensive abilities might be overstated. Alex Caruso has also been one of the best defenders in the NBA since he made it to the league, but he is more of a perimeter defender than a true wing defender.
Wesley Matthews was brought over on the bi-annual exception this winter and he is a capable wing defender, but he is likely not going to be given a ton of minutes.
The Lakers’ overall team as a defensive unit is more than solid and got even better with the subtractions of Rajon Rondo and Quinn Cook, but also lost some with Dwight Howard and Avery Bradley going elsewhere.
Kyle Kuzma also showed a bit of defensive promise, but he cannot be relied on. Talen Horton-Tucker could even step in for meaningful minutes as a wing defender as well, but he lacks the experience.
This might be the least pressing need for the Lakers as the season approaches fast, but it is still one that should be addressed.
dark. Next. Can Kyle Kuzma still be traded?
Guys like Moe Harkless, Wilson Chandler, and Andre Roberson could fit that bill perfectly.