03-15-2025, 11:55 AM
(03-15-2025, 11:03 AM)mvossman Wrote: That guys injury history is super scary. They were giving up most of their remaining assets for that trade. If they found anything in that physical that made them second guess, I can see why they pulled out.
Totally agree. The cost for Mark Williams was a total all-in move. I was surprised they even did it in the first place due to his injury history, but thought that ok, perhaps he actually is healthy now.
Knecht can be good. He had a rough period after the trade when I was wondering what is a big deal around him. But, once he got over the trade, he is awesome. Excellent shooter and much more athletic than he looks. I would only move him, if a great player is coming back.
Reaves will be their big decision. His current contract is awesome, but only has one more year on it. He can really put up stats. Not that great facilitator, but still decent. I can easily see him playing next to Luka. On the other hand, he will be attacked in the playoffs. Playoffs this year will have a huge impact on their decision on him.
Assuming Reaves proves to be a good piece moving forward. In the long term, Lakers need a center and an elite two-way wing, preferably a point of attack defender, who will replace LeBron. The likes of Bridges, Anunoby and similar. Problem is, they realistically only have assets for one of these player types. I would really go hard after Smart in the summer as a buy-low option.