Lakers: Why signing James Ennis would be far better than Isaiah Thomas

By Jason Reed | Aug 17, 2021

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 14: Isaiah Thomas #7 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during a game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on February 14, 2018 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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Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports – Los Angeles Lakers /

There are two players that the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly linked to at this stage of free agency. The Lakers have reportedly shown interest in wing James Ennis and guard Isaiah Thomas. Both of which have been reported by NBA insider Marc Stein.

Thomas is obviously the far bigger name. Not only is he a former MVP finalist who was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers before (to essentially open up salary-cap space for LeBron James, ironically), but he also just dropped 81 points in a Jawsover Pro-Am game.

That has created a debate among Laker fans between those that want to see Thomas back in LA as a no-risk flier and those who are not big fans of his game.

There is far less controversy and debate with James Ennis, who is the typical run-of-the-mill wing player who has had far less exposure in this league than Isaiah Thomas has.

That being said, James Ennis would be a far better signing for the Los Angeles Lakers than Isaiah Thomas.

The Los Angeles Lakers do have three open roster spots, so even if they wanted to keep one open for a buyout signing they could sign both players. However, if it ultimately came down to one or the other, the answer should be quite clear: sign James Ennis.

Let’s break down why.

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