Lakers Eyeing Free Agent West

Daniel Shirey-US PRESSWIRE

The Los Angeles Lakers are in a free fall without an experienced point guard at the helm. Fortunately, there are a few free-agent options available that could help patch their deficiencies in the shortcoming.

According to ESPN’s Marc Stein, the Lakers have shown interest in Delonte West, who was last seen parting ways with the Dallas Mavericks this preseason. Still, the team holds some concerns about signing the veteran point guard.

For one, West brings with him a lot of baggage. He’s struggled with off the court issues and it was the sole reason for his exit in Dallas. And he isn’t, by any means, a long term answer for the Lakers at the position.

But the Lakers don’t need him to be. All Los Angeles is hoping for at this point is someone to fill the void that was left from injuries to Steve Nash and Steve Blake. And backup guards Chris Duhon and Darius Morris aren’t making any measurable impact on the court given their increased minutes. In fact, the duo struggled mightily trying to contain Cleveland Cavaliers Kyrie Irving this past week as he netted 28 points and dished 11 assists in his return from a broken finger.

Meanwhile, West could be an instant upgrade on defense where he is a great on-ball defender. And that’s where the Lakers could desperately need help, given the fact they are allowing 100+ points per contest in the last 10 games.

He can also contribute on the offensive end as well. In fact, the veteran guard is definitely a more consistent shooter than both Duhon and Morris and can handle the bulk of the point guard responsibilities until Nash and Blake return.

Moreover, West has the experience playing with superstars. In Cleveland, he helped Lebron James and the Cavaliers to an Eastern Conference championship. In Dallas, he’s played alongside Dirk Nowitzki and company. So transitioning to Los Angeles and playing with Kobe Bryant and Dwight Howard shouldn’t be a problem.

As for now, West serves as the best fit for the Lakers until they can get everyone healthy and on the same page in Mike D’Antoni’s new uptempo offensive scheme. He adds the right balance of defense and production that the Lakers could desperately need as they scramble for answers as their ship continues to sink.