The Los Angeles Lakers were reportedly trying to acquire Marcus Morris from the New York Knicks, as the forward was posting career highs in points and it looked like he could be a valuable addition to their core.
However, the Knicks’ asking price for Morris was way too high, at least when it came to dealing him to the Lakers, according to The Los Angeles Times.
It was reported that day that the Lakers’ offer had to include Danny Green and Kyle Kuzma if they wanted to land Morris. Nonetheless, it seems now that the Knicks wanted way too much more for his services.
New York was eager to get Kyle Kuzma, Avery Bradley, DeMarcus Cousins, and at least one second-round pick for the veteran forward, which was way more than the Lakers were willing to pay for him.
Naturally, Rob Pelinka shut down the negotiations and the Los Angeles Clippers made the most of the opportunity, completing a three-team deal with the Washington Wizards and New York Knicks to take Morris to the Staples Center.
Truth to be told, it doesn’t feel as if Morris was going to solve any of the Lakers’ current issues. He can knock down three-pointers, but he’s not known for being a sharpshooter.
Also, Morris is a solid wing defender and can play both forward spots, but the Lakers’ defense has been quite reliable throughout the entire campaign.
The Lakers have a bit of a logjam in the wings right now, so adding another forward may not be the best choice right now. They need another ball-handler, playmaker, and shooter.
The Clippers, on the other hand, are a terrifying defensive juggernaut with Morris’ addition. They have a pound of dogs under Doc Rivers’ command, and the Knicks were kind enough to let him go at a fair price instead.
