The Los Angeles Lakers have been working hard this offseason. They’ve brought in a whole new cast of players and are continuing to bring in more. So far this offseason, we’ve graded the signings of Lonnie Walker IV and Damian Jones.
Today we’ll talk about the most recent signing of big man Thomas Bryant.
Grading the Los Angeles Lakers signing of Thomas Bryant:
If you’ve been following the Lakers closely the past few years, you might recognize the 6’10” big man. Bryant played 15 games for the Lake Show during the 2017-2018 season. The former Indiana Hoosier was then claimed off waivers by the Washington Wizards and has played there since.
Bryant is known around the league for his offensive production. He’s a center that can easily score the ball in the paint. He also possesses some skill to stretch the floor, as he shot 36% from three in his time with Washington.
His first year in Washington showed that the 248-pound center belonged in this league. He averaged 10.5 PPG and 6.3 RPG while also showcasing the ability to shoot beyond the arc. Bryant was so efficient this season that he led the league in 2P% with a fantastic 68.5% shooting.
Bryant’s third year in the league was off to a great start averaging 13.2 PPG, 7.2 RPG, and he was shooting 40% from three. However, major injuries held the young man out for a significant time these past couple of seasons. He’s only played 37 games in the past two years.
The Lakers will look to help Bryant reach the peak he was at not too long ago. Bryant has all the keys to be the team’s starting center this upcoming season.
Playing next to Anthony Davis is the perfect fit for the big man. Bryant’s main struggle is on the defensive side of the ball, so playing next to Davis will allow some of his flaws to be masked. This will allow Bryant to do what he does best and score the ball around the rim.
He gives the Lakers another youngster with high-profile athleticism, which the team lacked last season. The former Hoosier is also most certainly an upgrade over last year’s centers Dwight Howard and DeAndre Jordan.
With everything being said, this signing gets a grade of a B. That might be lower than what some Laker fans give the signing. However, I can’t give this signing any higher with injury concerns and a lack of defensive skill. The former second-round pick will look to rebound literally and figuratively this upcoming season.