Lakers buyout candidates: 5 best possible options to bolster roster

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - DECEMBER 22: Will Barton #5 of the Washington Wizards shoots over Nickeil Alexander-Walker #6 of the Utah Jazz during the first half of a game at Vivint Arena on December 22, 2022 in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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 Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - DECEMBER 22: Will Barton #5 of the Washington Wizards shoots over Nickeil Alexander-Walker #6 of the Utah Jazz during the first half of a game at Vivint Arena on December 22, 2022 in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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 Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
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(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers
(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers

3. Will Barton, SG

Speaking of guards, Will Barton is another potential option for the Los Angeles Lakers that would seemingly only add to the logjam of players in the backcourt. Barton is a bit bigger than Forbes, standing in at six-six instead of six-two, and could give the Lakers at least another option to throw on the wing.

Right now the Lakers are throwing traditional guards at the small forward position in different small lineups so it would not hurt to get Barton in there to potentially add another option for Darvin Ham to throw out there.

Barton is not a prolific three-point shooter but he can certainly hold his own from beyond the arc and has put together some solid seasons. Just two seasons ago he shot 38.1% from three while adding 4.0 rebounds and 3.2 assists to go with his 12.7 points per game. Barton has returned to that form this season, shooting 38% from three.

The Washington Wizards seemingly shopped Barton at the deadline but no team was likely willing to take on his $14.3 million salary. With Washington not really going anywhere, it makes a lot more sense to save some money on the books and give Barton a chance to sign with a contender.

If Barton was a bit bigger and fit better as a small forward he would rank higher on this list. However, since he adds to the guard logjam he checks in at no. 3.