The biggest defensive liabilities on the Los Angeles Lakers roster

By Jason Reed | Sep 10, 2021

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - FEBRUARY 20: Kent Bazemore #26 of the Golden State Warriors drives to the basket against Malik Monk #1 of the Charlotte Hornets during the first quarter of their game at Spectrum Center on February 20, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers /

Wayne Ellington

The Los Angeles Lakers brought in Wayne Ellington to add shooting to the roster and it was a logical move for the team to make. The team needed weapons that could help space the floor and at a veteran minimum contract, there were not many better options than Wellington.

There is no denying that Wellington is one of the best shooters on the entire Los Angeles Lakers roster. As long as he keeps shooting the ball at a good rate then he is going to earn playing time with the Lakers and could be in the crunch time lineup.

However, if he is not shooting threes well then Ellington is going to be in serious trouble in regards to his playing time. That is because he does not add the defensive prowess to justify playing him if he is not hitting his shots at a good rate.

Ellington is not a three and D defender and is a well below-average defensive player which certainly is not helped by his age. He is someone who other teams could hunt in a playoff series and it would be worrisome to see Kyrie Irving get switched onto Ellington in a key moment.

Again, there is faith in Frank Vogel that he will improve Ellington’s defense but if he doesn’t, and he does not shoot well enough to keep him in, his playing time could plummet.

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