The Los Angeles Lakers took a risk earlier this offseason when they rolled the dice on Deandre Ayton's signing. Adding a star center is exactly what the team needed; however, the obvious counter to this is pointing out Ayton's questionable effort. Consistency is everything in the league, and Ayton has yet to show himself willing to bring this trait to the floor every night, making him a bit of a work in progress.
Still, Los Angeles has two of the greatest players to ever step foot on a court in LeBron James and Luka Doncic, which should help Ayton find his footing. With James and Doncic leading the charge, the Lakers' front office could be open to taking on another reclamation project, including one veteran who also has noted consistency issues.
Lakers Should Take a Chance on Struggling Veteran Ben Simmons
Things have grown dark enough for free agent Ben Simmons that the former L.A. Clipper is reportedly considering retirement. It is understandable when considering Simmons' career and just how off the rails things have gone since the former star left Philadelphia. There was a time when his defense, rebounding, and driving ability left room to wonder how far he could climb among the NBA's best players.
A lack of a jumpshot seemed to be the only trait holding back the forward from complete stardom. Something that has never been developed and Simmons remains a hypothetical when talking about what could've been. Still, there is value in bringing the rebounding and defense to Los Angeles and seeing if there is anything left in the tank.
If there is anyone in the league that can help Simmons figure things out and turn back the clock a bit, it's James, Doncic, and head coach JJ Redick. Two of the NBA's best playmakers and one of the best shooters in modern history are a great fit as Simmons attempts to breathe life back into his career. With that said, this is very dependent on whether or not the veteran wants to continue his career, especially on what would likely be a veteran minimum contract.
There have been several conversations about whether or not Simmons truly loves the game and can put in the needed work to be great. Now, the ball is in his court to prove if his early career hype was valid or not.
Los Angeles has nothing to lose by offering Simmons a "prove yourself" deal and attempting to breathe life back into his career. If the move fails, no one is going to blame the Lakers or their players for failing the same task that has eluded every group Simmons has played with in the last several years
The flip side of this is that Los Angeles would be taking a small shot at adding a solid defensive contributor for next to no cost. It is at least worth reaching out as the Lakers' underwhelming offseason continues.