The Los Angeles Lakers released guard Kobe Bufkin, creating an opening on the 15-man roster as the team scrambles to reinforce a backcourt hit by injuries to Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and Marcus Smart ahead of the NBA postseason.
Why the move was made
Bufkin, converted to a standard contract after the trade deadline, failed to hold a regular spot in J.J. Redick’s rotation. Needing additional playmaking and scoring while their injured starters recover, the front office chose to cut the rookie and seek more experienced help.
Postseason eligibility rules
Only players who were waived by another club on or before March 1 can suit up in the playoffs, eliminating recent cuts such as Milwaukee’s Cam Thomas. Within those parameters, several candidates stand out.
Potential external signings
Chris Paul – The 12-time All-Star, 40, has not played since the Clippers sent him home earlier this season, which he said would be his last in the league. Paul’s track record as a floor general and his longtime ties to LeBron James make him the most accomplished option available.
Lonzo Ball – The former No. 2 overall pick, traded from Cleveland to Utah at the deadline and then waived, logged 35 games for the Cavaliers, averaging 4.6 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.6 assists in 20.8 minutes. Health has been a concern, but his defense and passing could ease the load until Doncic and Reaves return.
Cole Anthony – Still only 25, Anthony averaged 6.7 points, 2.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists in 15.1 minutes across 35 contests with Milwaukee before a trade to Phoenix and subsequent release. The combo guard offers instant offense off the bench.
Spencer Dinwiddie – Previously pursued by general manager Rob Pelinka on the buyout market, the 33-year-old last played in January for FC Bayern Munich. His size and experience could bolster perimeter depth if he is in game shape.
Internal promotion options
Drew Timme – The rookie center/forward was named to the All-NBA G League Second Team and has averaged 3.5 points and 1.3 rebounds in 8.9 minutes over 25 NBA appearances. Upgrading his two-way deal would make him playoff-eligible.
Nick Smith Jr. – Another two-way player, Smith is shooting 41.6% from three and averaging 6.0 points in 12.3 minutes through 28 games. His perimeter scoring could provide a spark if the Lakers convert his contract.
The Lakers have until the start of the postseason to decide whether to sign a veteran free agent or elevate one of their two-way contributors as they attempt to patch their backcourt and maintain momentum in the Western Conference race.
Source: LakersNation
