2. Kuzma Isn’t a Sufficient Third Option

There is a clear need for the Lakers to acquire a player that can serve as a reliable third scoring option alongside Anthony Davis and LeBron James. It appears that Kyle Kuzma is not fit for this role, especially in a playoff setting.

Kuzma hasn’t been impactful enough as a pick-and-roll ball-handler (0.864 PPP – 56th percentile) or isolation threat (0.842 PPP – 45th percentile) to be a sufficient third option. While it’s intriguing that he’s been efficient in spot-up, he needs to be better as an initiator.

The Lakers would benefit greatly from having a third option that can consistently convert on catch-and-shoot jumpers while also being a reliable pull-up shooter. In addition, being able to make passing reads while not being a negative defender would help, too.

The Lakers were tied to Darren Collison when the rumor came out that he is seriously contemplating a return from retirement. It’s no guarantee that they will be able to sign him and even if they did, he wouldn’t single-handedly eliminate all depth concerns long-term.