3 Moves the Lakers Must Make After Securing LeBron Extension

3. Add More High Floor Players to the Backcourt

The Lakers need to add some more athletic difference-makers to the backcourt. D'Angelo Russell played well in the regular season but became a ghost once the NBA playoffs started. He's also a major liability on the defensive end.

Austin Reaves is a smooth ball handler and shot creator, but defense isn't his strong suit. The Lakers need to add more capable perimeter defenders who are disruptive. Los Angeles asked Davis to be Superman on defense far too often this past season.

Another player who was basically a non-factor last year was Gabe Vincent. He signed a three-year, $33 million deal back in 2023. He only suited up in 11 games for the Lakers, averaging 3.1 points and 1.9 assists per game.

This backcourt needs some more dynamic guards. With LeBron James turning 40 years old this season, it's imperative Los Angeles adds some quality ball handlers and playmakers. That will take some pressure off James and allow him to play off-ball more.

In addition to that, having athletic and instinctive defenders puts opposing offenses into difficult situations which leads to turnovers and easy points in transition.

Someone they should target should be Tyus Jones, who is a terrific floor general. Jones is very trustworthy with the basketball and does a great job spacing the floor. This past season, Jones became the first player to lead the league in assist-to-turnover ratio in five consecutive seasons.

Last season with the Washington Wizards, Jones averaged 12 points, 7.3 assists, 1.1 steals, and shot 41% from downtown.

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