1. Derrick Rose
Derrick Rose was connected to the Los Angeles Lakers multiple times as a trade target but nothing ever came to fruition. Then last season the New York Knicks traded for him early in the season, removing any possibility of the Lakers getting him at the deadline or as a buyout target.
Rose was solid for the New York Knicks and the only playoff game that the Knicks managed to win was because of Rose. Rose took over Game 2 against the Atlanta Hawks with a vintage Rose performance. That is not who he is any more nor is it who he needs to be, but that spark to have a big game in the playoffs is obviously still there.
Rose would be an outstanding fit on this Lakers team. He would likely come off the bench with the Lakers running a point guard who does not need the ball as much in the starting lineup, similar to the dynamic that team utilized with Avery Bradley.
It would be nice to see Alex Caruso get his due and become the starting point guard, mainly for his defense against other team’s starting guards. Rose would get fair minutes off the bench and would not only provide the playmaking when LeBron was resting but could provide some playmaking with LeBron on the floor as well.
Rose fits exactly into the Rondo mold that this team had two years ago. He is not as naturally gifted as a passer and can do more offensively by exploding to the rim, but he can make things happen and get his teammates involved off the bench.