How to best utilize the newfound 'deep pockets' that the Los Angeles Lakers will have once Mark Walter fully takes over is one of the most intriguing conversations in Hollywood right now. Maximizing the scouting department stands out as an obvious answer to that question.
In particular, the pro-level scouting department was something Jovan Buha highlighted as a focal point when asked a question on that subject in a recent episode of Buha's Block. The Lakers reporter thought multiple areas could and should be addressed. However, this one stood tall among them.
Buha said, "Actually having a pro scouting team on the road, those guys going to games every single night, and collecting intel, just doing front-row seat scouting at the highest levels, I think that's an area they can really improve on."
The Lakers insider highlighted that the Lakers' college and G League scouting has been great, but the pro level leaves a lot of room to be desired. It is difficult to disagree with Buha's assessment of the situation.
Lakers boosting pro scouting would be masterful maneuvering under current CBA
The challenges of navigating the NBA's current CBA should not be lost on anybody. The slow nature of this free agency period should provide plenty of reminders as to just how cautious teams are forced to be with regard to how they spend their money.
Fighting against the second apron will not allow the Lakers to replicate a spending spree like the Los Angeles Dodgers can during one of their offseasons. However, flexing the finances is still possible through building up the organizational strength surrounding the roster.
The boost to pro scouting would help the Lakers escape previous fates that have plagued them over the years. Buha rightly pointed out how the front office had 'botched so many of their veteran minimum signings' in answering the question on his show.
If the Lakers can have the same success at finding hidden gems as they do in other areas, the overall roster construction would undoubtedly thrive. Elevating the pro scouting can help minimize situations that have caused distress for the team of late.
While not a veteran minimum player, do Lakers fans really need to look further than someone like Gabe Vincent as an example of notable misses for this organization in recent years?
Vincent came off a strong playoff run with the Miami Heat before joining the Lakers in free agency. That success has not carried over, apart from brief and inconsistent stretches.
With the financial restrictions in the NBA as they presently are, making the most out of every contract and every dollar is imperative. If the Lakers can hit their stride in that department, it will go a long way to ensuring the Walter era gets started on the right note.