Despite not making a deal at the deadline, the Los Angeles Lakers acquired Spencer Dinwiddie as assistance. After being dealt to the Toronto Raptors and then waived, Dinwiddie became available for signing with the Lakers using the money that remained from their Mid-Level Exception.
Dinwiddie wasn’t really addressing a need when he signed, and he hasn’t been all that good for the Lakers since joining the team. Other than that, the team didn’t really need another point guard on the roster, thus the seasoned player is D’Angelo Russell insurance.
Dinwiddie fills a void on the roster, but the Lakers shouldn’t be discouraged from adding other players. Los Angeles needs to start winning now, before it’s too late, since time is running out. The Lake Show would really appreciate any assistance, and fortunately for them, the Detroit Pistons have recently made an excellent buyout target available.
Mike Muscala would be a perfect buyout signing for the Lakers
With Jarred Vanderbilt and Christian Wood sidelined, the Lakers need depth in the frontcourt. Being the team’s lone depth big man, Jaxson Hayes just isn’t good enough because it restricts the team’s attacking options.
There should be more gunfire in Los Angeles. Even though the Lakers are not the team’s best at three-point shooting, they still need to make upgrades. One of the league’s top big players at shooting three points is Muscala. Without the terrible defence, he would provide the Lakers with a shooting presence akin to that of Wood.
Most importantly, Muscala is a seasoned veteran who, should the occasion arise, can step up and take centre stage in a postseason series. The roster will be reduced to about eight players after the play-in and playoffs start. The Lakers should have options instead of depending solely on players who haven’t shown much in the NBA, like Hayes and Cam Reddish, to fill in.
To make room for Muscala, the Lakers would have to waive someone, but even with a signing, the team would still be in the first tax bracket. Even though Hayes was a hopeful addition in the summer, he hasn’t contributed much to the club, thus it wouldn’t be a bad idea to waive him in favour of the seasoned Muscala. You might also argue for Christian Wood, or for Taurean Prince, with an expiring contract (though Darvin Ham would never approve of it).
In any case, Muscala would make a fantastic addition to the rotation, and the Lakers would benefit greatly if they could persuade him to move to Los Angeles. The Lakers’ lack of elite status is the main issue, which can drive Muscala away.
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