Zach Lavine is a topic of trade interest for the Los Angeles Lakers. The All-Star shooting guard has only played 18 games for the Chicago Bulls this season. With the Bulls unlikely to make a run to the postseason, LaVine has showed he would like to play elsewhere. For the Lakers, acquiring a third dominant scorer could help them. While many fans have discussed displeasure in this idea, it could reap benefits for the team. This is how Zach LaVine could make the Lakers better.
How Zach LaVine Could Make the Lakers Better
1. Adding another scoring threat
Although his numbers this season have been low, LaVine is still a huge piece to any team. His scoring on offense is always a threat. His ability to shoot the three ball as well as attack the rim is impressive. The explosiveness LaVine plays with causes teams to key in on him. However, with LeBron James and Anthony Davis being able to score extremely well, teams wouldn’t be able to lock in to Lavine. If LaVine went to Los Angeles, he would bring a third option that teams are afraid of. He can play off ball too and he’s still in his prime years. Spacing the floor with his shooting is a huge bonus.
2. Alternating minutes with James and Davis
Although LaVine would start if he came to Los Angeles, he could play minutes with James and Davis. During the game, LaVine could play with the bench unit. This could give James and/or Davis time to rest without feeling rushed to get back on the floor. Furthermore, the Lakers could play all of the three stars together, two at once, or just one. There should be enough time for James and Davis to get rest in between the second and third quarter to finish out close games in the fourth. It would be beneficial to have Lavine, as long as the Lakers don’t give up those two.
3. Improves the Lakers as a Point Guard
In any trade for LaVine, the Lakers would most likely have to give up Austin Reaves. A straight up trade between the two isn’t likely, so whomever else the Lakers would trade should be minimal. If LaVine replaces Reaves, he would take the responsibility of playing point guard sometimes. Fortunately, D’Angelo Russell and LeBron James usually take turns running the point. This means LaVine would be another option to be the player indicator. Another bonus of LaVine as a point guard is that he can use Davis and James as screeners. Teams will have severe difficulty guarding this. Lavine is very skilled in shooting and attacking the basket, while Davis and James can attack the basket like only a few can.
The Last Word
In conclusion, LaVine going to the Lakers provides another spark for LA. He is an offensive weapon that can take over a game. Additionally, he can play minutes with or without the other two superstars. Lastly, he can play the point guard position to take pressure off other players. If the Lakers can keep their core, and only let go of a player (or two), they should pursue it. Their current roster can still make things interesting, but LaVine will change their team dynamic.
