The Los Angeles Lakers’ roster looks a lot better, or at least a lot more balanced and cohesive, after the three deals they made in the final hours before last Thursday’s NBA trade deadline.
At least on paper, they have more outside shooting, forward depth, a legitimate two-way center other than Anthony Davis and a point guard, D’Angelo Russell, who is a much better fit than Russell Westbrook.
But by no means do the Lakers have a complete roster.
They could use another legitimate 3-and-D wing, as well as one more center who can defend and rebound.
Now that the trade deadline is in the rearview mirror, teams are waiving players they deem superfluous, creating a buyout market that has some interesting bit players.
Los Angeles has one open roster spot available, and it could fill the spot with a player on the buyout market.
These five players could help the Lakers a little if they want to sign with the Purple and Gold.