The Los Angeles Lakers desperately need shooting if they are to compete for the NBA championship next season. They ranked 24th in three-pointers made (969 total) compared to the league leaders Boston Celtics (1,351), and the fact that LeBron James led the team in three-point percentage (41.0%) isn’t a great sign of this team’s offense. Luckily for the Lakers, there are five excellent three-pointers they can target and acquire this summer.
1. Zach LaVine
3PT Stats: 34.9%, 2.4 3PM – 6.8 3PA
2023-24 Stats: 19.5 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 3.9 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.3 BPG
How The Lakers Can Acquire Zach LaVine: Trade including D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimua, Gabe Vincent, No. 17 Overall Pick
Don’t be fooled by Zach LaVine’s numbers this season, because his production was marred by injury and being involved in trade rumors. Adding Zach LaVine to the roster would significantly boost the Lakers’ offensive firepower. LaVine’s scoring ability would relieve some of the offensive burden from LeBron and Davis, allowing them to conserve energy for crucial moments. Moreover, LaVine’s athleticism could bring new energy to the team, potentially leading to a faster-paced style of play that keeps opponents on their heels.
To acquire Zach LaVine, the Lakers might need to propose a trade that includes D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and the No. 17 overall pick in the upcoming 2024 NBA Draft. This trade package would provide the Chicago Bulls with a mix of talent and potential draft assets, which could be appealing if they decide to rebuild or retool their roster.
LaVine is a career 38.2% shooter from deep and can average at least 20 points per game in his sleep with the Lakers. As the third option and spot-up shooter, LaVine could greatly improve the Lakers’ offense with LeBron James starting officially at point guard alongside Austin Reaves. With better floor spacing, the Lakers will be major problems in the West.
2. Alex Caruso
3PT Stats: 40.8%, 1.9 3PM – 4.7 3PA
2023-24 Stats: 10.1 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.7 SPG, 1.0 BPG
How The Lakers Can Acquire Alex Caruso: Jarred Vanderbilt, Jalen Hood-Schifino, No. 17 Overall Pick
Alex Caruso’s tenacity on defense and skill in hitting three-point shots makes him an ideal fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Caruso’s defensive prowess would enhance the Lakers’ perimeter defense while his above-average three-point shooting opens up the court. Over his career, Caruso is shooting over 38% from three and hit over 40% this past season.
Caruso’s relatively manageable contract makes him an attractive target for the Lakers, who are looking to bolster their backcourt defense and add depth to their roster. By utilizing two young players and the No. 17 overall pick, the Lakers can bring back an excellent shooter who also provides All-NBA level defense on a consistent level.
3. Buddy Hield
3PT Stats: 38.9%, 2.6 3PM – 6.6 3PA
2023-24 Stats: 12.1 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 2.8 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG
How The Lakers Can Acquire Buddy Hield: Sign-and-trade including Austin Reaves and Gabe Vincent
Buddy Hield is one of the most prolific three-point shooters in the NBA, making him an excellent fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. His ability to consistently knock down shots from deep would provide much-needed spacing for the Lakers’ offense. Hield’s quick release and movement without the ball would make him a valuable asset in the Lakers’ offensive schemes, particularly in catch-and-shoot situations where LeBron’s passing prowess can shine.
Hield’s presence would force opposing defenses to stay honest, reducing the number of double teams on LeBron and Davis. Additionally, Hield’s experience and ability to perform under pressure would add another layer of reliability to the Lakers’ roster, especially in clutch moments because he shot nearly 39% from three this season with over six attempts per game.
The Lakers could look to acquire Buddy Hield through a sign-and-trade deal involving Austin Reaves and Gabe Vincent. This move would allow the Lakers to secure Hield’s shooting without giving up too much of their core. With Hield heading to free agency, the 76ers will likely sign him to a long-term deal and bring Austin Reaves on board to start alongside Tyrese Maxey.
4. Malik Beasley
3PT Stats: 41.3%, 2.8 3PM – 6.9 3PA
2023-24 Stats: 11.3 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.1 BPG
How The Lakers Can Acquire Malik Beasley: Free Agency (Mid-Level Exception)
Adding Malik Beasley would improve the Lakers’ three-point shooting significantly, providing LeBron and Davis with a consistent perimeter threat. His ability to space the floor would create more driving lanes for LeBron and more room for Davis to operate in the post. Beasley’s return to the Lakers could be a low-risk, high-reward move that enhances the team’s championship aspirations.
Malik Beasley could be acquired by the Lakers through free agency, using their Mid-Level Exception that is worth $5,250,000. This would be a cost-effective way to add a reliable shooter without sacrificing significant assets. Beasley’s previous stint with the Lakers familiarized him with the team’s system and expectations, which could facilitate a smooth transition and immediate impact.
His 41.3% three-point shooting demonstrates his efficiency from beyond the arc. Beasley’s ability to catch and shoot, as well as create his own shot off the dribble, would complement LeBron’s playmaking and Davis’ interior dominance so he is an excellent backup if the Lakers can get one of their top-three targets.
5. Gary Trent Jr.
3PT Stats: 39.3%, 2.5 3PM – 6.4 3PA
2023-24 Stats: 13.7 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG
How The Lakers Can Acquire Gary Trent Jr: Free Agency (Mid-Level Exception)
Finally, Gary Trent Jr. is another excellent three-point shooter who would fit well alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The Lakers could pursue Gary Trent Jr. in free agency, using their Mid-Level Exception. This approach would allow the Lakers to add a quality shooter without engaging in complex trade negotiations. Trent’s contract demands would need to align with the Lakers’ cap space, but his addition would be a strategic move to bolster the team’s shooting and defense.
His 39.3% three-point shooting would provide the Lakers with a reliable perimeter option. Trent’s ability to play both shooting guard and small forward offers versatility in the Lakers’ lineup and he can also be impactful at playing passing lanes at a high level to come up with steals.
Gary Trent Jr.’s addition to the Lakers would significantly enhance their three-point shooting and perimeter defense. His ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc would spread the floor, providing more space for LeBron and Davis to operate. Trent’s defensive skills would also help the Lakers in matchups against other elite wing players.
