7 Role players Lakers could target to complement LeBron James
By Will Eudy
3-and-D wings
Buddy Hield
The next category of role players that would make sense for the Lakers to pursue is wings that can operate successfully in a three-and-D role. A lot of players in the modern NBA have evolved into being able to play in this type of role, and there are always several good options on the market each offseason.
When it comes to players who can shoot a high percentage from beyond the arc, Buddy Hield is one of the best in the business. He is a career 40% shooter from three, and is knocking down 43% of his attempts from distance since being traded to the 76ers at the trade deadline. The Lakers have been eyeing him for years, so this one would certainly feel like an appropriate fit.
Royce O'Neale
Recently dealt from the Brooklyn Nets to the Phoenix Suns at the deadline, Royce O'Neale is another attractive wing option. Like Buddy, he can shoot from a very respectable clip. In six games with the Suns, O'Neale is shooting 40% from deep and he is a career 38% three-point shooter.
Defensively, Royce is a switchable defender and has shown he is capable of guarding multiple positions. The Lakers already have a few players of this variety, but you can never have too many in today's NBA.