Los Angeles Lakers: Plan B options that are better than Kemba Walker

By Jason Reed | May 1, 2019

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - FEBRUARY 25: Kemba Walker #15 of the Charlotte Hornets reacts after a play against the Golden State Warriors during their game at Spectrum Center on February 25, 2019 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers /

1. Tobias Harris

On paper, it might not appear that Tobias Harris is a better option for a plan B superstar than Kemba Walker. Walker made the all-star team, Harris didn’t. Walker probably will be named to an All-NBA team, Harris likely won’t.

In fact, you could legitimately make the case that Walker is a better all-around player than Harris and I would not sit here and refute it. While it is a lot closer than some people might think, it is not a crazy notion to think that Walker is the better player.

However, in terms of fit with the Los Angeles Lakers, it is more than apparent that Tobias Harris is the better alternative. First of all, the Lakers already have their point guard in Lonzo Ball and a backcourt of Ball and Walker probably would not work.

Second of all, Harris is a swiss army knife that can really guard both forward spots and would give the Lakers one of the most flexible starting lineups with Ball, Brandon Ingram, Harris and James all on the court at the same time. Oh yeah, and Kyle Kuzma, who could become one of the league’s best sixth men.

What makes Harris a better fit is his ability to play the second role behind a massive superstar such as James. Harris is the perfect second-best guy to partner with LeBron to win games. He can knock down his shots, can play good defense and won’t have an ego to get in the way.

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