Lakers News: How 2023 LA Playoff Guard Can Help West Rival

Makes sense considering their situation

After being signed as a defensive specialist just before the 2023 postseason began, one former Los Angeles Laker is headed elsewhere in the Western Conference for the 2024 season. 

Though he was a contingency roster piece for the Purple and Gold during their playoff run, Shaquille Harrison's opportunity with his new team could be extended considering moves concerning their backcourt to start the season. 

The

Memphis Grizzlies

aren't done adding to their 2023-24 roster for the preseason. The

team announced Thursday afternoon

that it had signed guard Shaquille Harrison. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Harrison is another player who should add to the competition at guard. He is known as a stout defender who can guard multiple positions and create havoc with on-ball pressure and his long arms. 

Ja Morant is suspended the first 25 games

of the season, so the Harrison signing could be one that helps Memphis navigate that stretch. 

via Damichael Cole, Commercial Appeal

Though the Grizzlies traded for Marcus Smart from Boston in the offseason, it cost them renowned backup guard in Tyus Jones to Washington as part of the three team transaction that netted the Celtics Kristaps Porzingis from D.C.

With Ja Morant out for 25 games, Smart will surely step into a starting role to replace him and possibly play alongside the All-Star guard, but the backcourt depth behind them for Memphis is unknown. 

Harrison's gritty defense has been a calling card for him and such a playstyle could match Smart's own intensity whenever the former Celtic needs a break on the bench. 

It's an intriguing move for Harrison after dispatching the Grizzlies in the first round just last season, but with moves to bring back D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves and signing Gabe Vincent, we can definitely understand the defender wanting a better opportunity elsewhere. 

Are you following us on Twitter, Facebook, or YouTube yet? Join the conversation as we discuss the latest Lakers news and rumors with fans like you!