Way too early grades for Lakers’ 2023 free-agent signings

MIAMI, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 06: Christian Wood #35 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on against the Miami Heat during the first quarter of the game at Kaseya Center on November 06, 2023 in Miami, Florida. 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 Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 06: Christian Wood #35 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on against the Miami Heat during the first quarter of the game at Kaseya Center on November 06, 2023 in Miami, Florida. 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 Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
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Lakers Gabe Vincent
(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

Gabe Vincent’s Lakers grade: D/incomplete

Perhaps the most hyped free agent signing for the Lakers this offseason was the addition of veteran guard Gabe Vincent. It was mainly because he was coming off an impressive performance in last year’s playoffs that helped the Heat reach the finals, and many expected he would come in and compete for a starting spot with D’Angelo Russell this season.

He gets an excuse for having a low grade by having an injury that has put him out since the fourth game which is why his grade is also an incomplete. Yet his performances in the pre-season and those first four games left a lot to be desired.

In the games that he did play in he didn’t score in double figures, and he only made one 3-pointer in 14 attempts. He is better known for his tough on-ball defense, which the Lakers have missed in his absence because he led the team in steals before his injury.

Hopefully, Vincent will find his shooting touch when he returns from his knee effusion injury in another week or so. If he can do that, he should be a valuable contributor moving forward for this team that needs to add some toughness and edge to it.