Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal

The 2021-22 season was an abject disaster for the Lakers. In fact, it’s hard to recall a more disappointing season in NBA history.

From the moment they acquired Russell Westbrook, critics foresaw problems. His poor shooting always projected as a poor fit alongside LeBron James. With that said, the poor fit was supposed to see them eliminated in the first or second round of the playoffs.

Missing them altogether was always an unacceptable outcome.

The Lakers need a change. Any change. Bringing in Julius Randle may or may not be an optimal one. If he can replicate his elite three-point accuracy from 2020-21, he’ll be a perfect fit with James. On the other hand, if he shoots like he did last season, they’ll have another problem on their hands.

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They have to roll the dice. Westbrook hasn’t shot the three efficiently in his entire career. There is no reason to expect that to change in 2022-23.