The Lakers did not make any trades before the deadline, but they have made one transaction since then. That is, of course, the waiving of DeMarcus Cousins to sign Markieff Morris following his buyout from the Detroit Pistons. They may be looking to make even more news, as they’ve also been connected to J.R. Smith as well as other potential buyout candidates such as Moe Harkless. One other player they’ve been connected to is Dion Waiters, who will reportedly be face-to-face with the Lakers soon.
That was reported by TNT and Yahoo Sports reporter, Chris Haynes, during the broadcast of the Lakers-Pelicans Tuesday night on TNT.
“League sources have told me that free agent guard Dion Waiters will meet with the Lakers on March the 2nd. There is some familiarity with the Lakers and Dion. Dion used to be repped by Rob Pelinka, the General Manager and President of the Lakers, so, there’s that, and LeBron James also played with Dion in Cleveland”
The Lakers were trying to find another playmaker on the trade block early in February, reportedly being interested in people like Derrick Rose and actively trading for a player like Marcus Morris. As the trade deadline has passed and the Lakers came up with no one, they will be now turning to potential upgrades in the buyout market. Dion Waiters would theoretically fit this mold, but he’s nowhere near Rose and Morris on the talent/impact level.
In addition, it’s doubtful that Waiters would eat much into the minutes of players like Alex Caruso and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope who have played consistently well all season. Or players like Rajon Rondo or Danny Green, whose roles are pretty cemented on this team due to their championship expertise.
Still, the move would only cost cutting a player like Troy Daniels, who at this point is rarely seen in games. It could end up being a net positive for the Lakers and, who knows, maybe he’ll start lighting it up like the good ole’ days.
2 thoughts