Lakers News: LA Expected To Consider Longtime Veteran Free Agent

Could he make sense with LA?

As the Los Angeles Lakers continue their offseason, they still have two open spots within their roster. At least one of those will be going to a big man to help add to their thin frontcourt. The other spot will likely be left open to give the team extra flexibility down the line.

As far as big men go, the market is pretty weak right now. LA could wait to see if anyone unexpected becomes available as there is no rush to sign anyone right now. However, one player became a free agent, and LA may change their thinking.

Long-time forward Rudy Gay was recently waived by the Oklahoma City Thunder after a trade, and he is now a free agent. According to Michael Scotto, the veteran is drawing interest from multiple playoff teams, and the Lakers are one of them.

“Veteran forward Rudy Gay is expected to draw interest from several playoff-caliber teams, including the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks, Chicago Bulls, and New Orleans Pelicans, league sources told HoopsHype.”

Per HoopsHype.com

If LA does sign Gay, it would go against what they have planned so far. He could add to their wing depth, but he wouldn’t provide help to their weak frontcourt depth. But getting a player like Gay, even at his age could be beneficial.

He only averaged 5.2 points last season for the Utah Jazz, but he has seen it all. The 36-year-old forward has been in the league for a while and could bring some veteran experience. He also can knock down the three-ball decently and could serve as a nice depth piece for the Lakers bench. 

If I had to guess, this is just the team doing their due diligence on Gay, but maybe they do have a real interest. I'd rather they go get a big man and keep one roster spot open, but this is why General Manager Rob Pelinka gets paid the big money. He makes the decisions, and so far, he has earned the benefit of the doubt. 

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