Why Los Angeles Lakers Should Pursue Kenrich Williams
Kenrich Williams would be a perfect fit for the Los Angeles Lakers given his skill set. There is plenty more that makes him an attractive asset for the Lakers beyond just his skill set.
Adding depth on the wing at small forward is imperative, especially if LeBron James is going to be spending more and more time in the frontcourt.
If that is the case, Trevor Ariza is left as the only true small forward, unless they add someone such as Williams. He can fill in at either power forward spot and is versatile enough to defend multiple positions.
The price to acquire him would also be exponentially cheaper than it would be for someone such as Jerami Grant, as second-round picks should be enough to entice Oklahoma City. Los Angeles wouldn’t even need to trade anyone away, as Williams can be absorbed into the trade exception created from the Marc Gasol trade.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: King James’ Royal Court Is Empty, Lakers Need Better Supporting Cast
Williams’ contract for this season is worth $2 million and next season is the same amount. But, if for some reason the Lakers had to open up a roster spot, Williams can be moved on from relatively easily as his 2022-23 contract is non-guaranteed.
Having some financial wiggle room, given how far over the tax that the Lakers are, is never a bad thing. Knowing they have a rotation piece that will cost only $2 million if held onto is nice as well.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: King James’ Royal Court Is Empty, Lakers Need Better Supporting Cast
While the Los Angeles Lakers are looking to improve the roster for this season, they are going to face the same obstacles next season upgrading the roster unless they move on from Russell Westbrook or Anthony Davis. Having a player such as Williams on as cheap of a deal as he is on is as attractive to the team for next season as it is this season.
