The Los Angeles Lakers want to improve their roster in the offseason, and De’Anthony Melton is the perfect bounce-back target. Blue Man Hoop’s Peter O’Keefe thinks the 6’2 guard will leave the Golden State Warriors. Melton has a $3.4 million player option for the 2026-27 season, but will likely decline it in search of a larger deal. The Lakers have cap space and could get the 27-year-old’s best seasons.
Melton averaged a career-high 12.3 points this year, but he struggled with his shooting efficiency. The 6’2 guard was returning from ACL surgery, which can often impact jumpers in year one. The career 35.8 percent 3-point shooter hit on just 29.4 percent this season. If the jumper returns, the purple and gold may be able to get an impactful 3-and-D wing at a bargain.
Melton is an obvious target for the Lakers. There have been rumors about his future for months. Golden State failed to make the playoffs and will look to make changes. Melton wants a raise, but the Warriors will likely use that money elsewhere. If he’s on the move, the Lakers offer the best shot to get paid and make an impact on a contender.
De’Anthony Melton is the perfect bounce-back target for the Lakers
Los Angeles needs a point of attack defender next to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Marcus Smart has filled that role this season, but the veteran is best suited to guard wings at this stage of his career. The Lakers would love to increase their defensive versatility and put shooting around number 77.
LA’s cap space will be determined by LeBron James’ future. The GOAT won’t be earning $50-plus million next season, but the Lakers could bring him back at a lesser rate. King James may decide to retire. The 41-year-old can’t play forever, and the Lakers need to sort out LeBron first.
Signing Melton makes even more sense if LeBron is back in Los Angeles. Doncic, Reaves, and James are three below-average defenders who can't hang at the point of attack. Getting a rim-protecting center should be the top priority. Beyond that, the Lakers must add 3-and-D wings, and Melton may be the cheapest option. He struggled to make shots and was slow coming off his ACL injury. It is the perfect time to swoop in and get him on a discount.
Luka makes everyone around him better. Melton would be getting wide-open looks and could quickly get his shooting stroke back. He is an above-average marksman and may even go to elite playing in LA. Doncic is that special and feeds every player exactly where they want the ball.
The Lakers should target De’Anthony Melton when he hits free agency. The guard knows he can get more money if he leaves the Bay Area. It will be decided by what Melton wants. He joined the Warriors because he thought they gave him a chance to win and get consistent minutes. It worked. Now, Melton must find a home.
The Los Angeles Lakers will have a shot to add De’Anthony Melton this summer. It would help LA build out their roster around Luka Doncic and hurt the rival Warriors in the process. This would be a significant loss for Golden State that won’t be easy to replace. The Lakers would also be getting the best version, as Melton is further removed from his ACL injury. It is something to watch this summer, so stay tuned.
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