Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal 

Astute readers may be wondering how this makes sense. Hardaway Jr. makes significantly more than Bamba – how does this deal work financially? 

Well, we’re assuming the Lakers lose some free agents. Rui Hachimura and Lonnie Walker IV are due to hit the open market this summer. If they sign deals the Lakers don’t feel they can match, the team will suddenly have some cap space to trade into. 

Why not use it to land an elite movement shooter? The Lakers are desperate for a 3-and-D wing. Hardaway Jr. is solid on the defensive end, and outstanding from distance. 

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Tim Hardaway, Dallas Mavericks & Los Angeles Lakers Updates

Just as the Mavericks would have to replace him, the Lakers would have to replace Bamba. Even if they couldn’t get a floor spacer, they should be able to find someone to replace his rim protection. 

After all, they already have their franchise player. The rest should come relatively easily.