15 Potential Lakers free agent targets with ties to LeBron James
By Tyler Watts
4. Malik Beasley
The Lakers traded Russell Westbrook at the 2023 deadline to get D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Beasley. It reshaped their roster and propelled LA on a run. They made it to the conference finals as their new additions mostly clicked into place.
Beasley struggled to make shots and slipped out of the rotation in the playoffs. His defene has always been subpar, so the 6'4 guard must score to stay on the floor. The Lakers were trying to add him on the fly, and it just did not work.
General manager Rob Pelinka still believed in him. The franchise attempted to re-sign Beasley, but he decided to take less to join Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks.
The 6’4 wing was asked to play a larger defensive role in Milwaukee. He shot over 41.3 percent from 3-point range and drew tougher perimeter assignments. He was overtasked on the defensive end, but Beasley attempted to expand his responsibility in hopes of landing a larger deal in free agency.
LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers could be interested in a reunion. They need shooting, athleticism, and perimeter defense. Malik Beasley likely wants more than the purple and gold can offer, but it never hurts to try. Finding a wing upgrade should be high on the priority list this summer, and Beasley will be available.