4. Alec Burks
Putting shooting and defense around LeBron James has been a winning formula dating back to his early days with the Cavaliers in the 2000s. The Lakers are last in 3-pointers attempted per game this season and 26th in threes made. It plays a massive role in sitting 17th in offensive rating and fighting for a spot in the Play-In Tournament. LA needs more shooting.
Burks has shot 40.1 percent from 3-point range over the last four seasons combined. He is an elite marksman capable of scoring 12 points per game. The 32-year-old wing has no issues coming off the bench and is a skilled role player. The Knicks traded for Burks before the deadline, but he is set to hit free agency this summer after making nearly $10.5 million in 2024.
The 6’6 wing struggles on defense, but he has a plus skill that could help the Lakers immediately. They have issues finding 3-and-D wings. Often their shots abandon them in Los Angeles, and the front office is scrambling to fill a void. Burks has experience playing in the Big Apple, which could help him excel under the bright lights in Hollywood.
Can the Lakers convince Alec Burks to take a pay cut to play in LA? It won’t be easy, but the veteran is still chasing his first championship. If he believes they can make a run, the Lakers might have a shot at signing him.