The Los Angeles Lakers came to terms with the Houston Rockets, sending Lou Williams in exchange for Corey Brewer and a future draft pick. With a big part of their offense gone, other players need to step up for coach Luke Walton.
Most hold varying opinions on why the Lakers would deal away Lou Williams. Considering he comes off the bench and drops points in tons, the immediate thing that comes to mind is the Lakers tanking the rest of the way. That could make sense since the Lakers are sputtering. However, it could also be about mapping out their future.
Before the Lou Williams trade was made official, Earvin “Magic” Johnson was named the president of Lakers' basketball operations. Gone are Jim Buss and Mitch Kupchak with president and co-owner Jeanie Buss cleaning house, USA Today reported.
While new heads are expected to be named soon, Johnson may have something in mind. Considering he was part of many NBA championships, the former Laker knows what it takes. Right now, he is addressing the front office needs by looking for an amiable general manager.
The latest on that is that Rob Pelinka has been hired as the new general manager, Yahoo Sports reported. Pelinka is best known as Kobe Bryant’s agent. Ironically, it could be one reason why Kobe and Jeanie Buss met earlier this month.
As far as the players are concerned, the likes of D’Angelo Russell, Jordan Clarkson, Julius Randle and Brandon Ingram will need to mature fast and step up. Corey Brewer will help too but his inconsistent rise could see him cut by season’s end.
The young Laker players have been inconsistent though such is understandable. But given their current situation, they need to play intelligent basketball from here on.
It may be too much to ask for the rising Laker stars though their development may take some time. Walton has found a way to make things work though additional resources may be needed.
The Lakers could use a veteran at this point, perhaps a reason why Jimmy Butler was linked for a time. Other than that, they could use that unprotected first-round pick to get a promising center – the one position they have yet to fill up for the future.
The video runs down the highlights of the recent Lou Williams trade.