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2 players who could be leaving the Los Angeles Lakers next

Jason Reed|
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 12: Quinn Cook #2 of the Los Angeles Lakers handles the ball in the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at Staples Center on February 12, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. 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 Meg Oliphant/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 12: Quinn Cook #2 of the Los Angeles Lakers handles the ball in the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at Staples Center on February 12, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. 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 Meg Oliphant/Getty Images)
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(Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers
(Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers

2. Markieff Morris

Markieff Morris’ poor play could force the Los Angeles Lakers hand

The Los Angeles Lakers made such a great buyout signing last season when they brought in Markieff Morris. Morris did not play much before the season’s delay but was exceptional in the NBA Playoffs, making 42% of his threes in the playoffs. It was the third-highest three-point percentage by a Laker in the playoffs with as many attempts.

Morris re-signed with the Lakers in the offseason in what seemed like a no-brainer move for Rob Pelinka. Now, as we approach the halfway mark of the season, there is a chance that Morris does not finish the season in LA.

Morris still has some potential trade value and could be included in a trade for a better asset with a selling team. That team could then flip Morris in a multi-team trade to a contending team for more draft capital. It is the best way to maximize any lesser trades, such as for P.J. Tucker.

Morris may also lose his minutes naturally because of other buyout signings. Whoever the team brings in to replace Cook’s spot on the roster is going to have to get minutes from somewhere as Cook was not really getting minutes as is.

Those minutes could come from Morris, who is playing really poorly this season and is arguably the worst player on the Lakers.

After releasing a positive clubhouse presence in Quinn Cook, I do not think the Lakers will part ways with Jared Dudley, with Markieff Morris being more likely.

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