Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal
It’s easy to blame all of the Lakers’ shortcomings in 2021-22 on Westbrook. In fact, it’s too easy.
Sure, he deserves his share of the blame. If Westbrook could shoot, he’d be able to play with James. It’s a problem that’s plagued him throughout his career, but it was never more pronounced than it was with the stakes as high as they were last season.
Still, Anthony Davis’ poor shooting was a problem as well. Realistically, it was no less of one. Bringing in Mo Bamba, a strong stretch big should improve LA’s spacing considerably.
Granted, the Lakers have already taken steps to do that – possibly at Westbrook’s expense. Patrick Beverley may have been acquired to be his replacement.
Still, keeping Westbrook and acquiring Bamba gives the Lakers optionality. If he’s amendable to it, perhaps Westbrook could transition into a sixth-man role. Meanwhile. Bamba and the recently acquired Thomas Bryant could battle it out for starter minutes.
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After all, Bryant spaces the floor as well. By landing Bamba, the Lakers could ensure that Westbrook plays exclusively with a stretch big man on the floor at all times. That should serve to facilitate a bounce-back year for the former MVP, as well as the Lakers.
