The Lakers have done a solid job of upgrading the point guard position, as well as bringing in some new guys to help in the front court. Unfortunately the team remained thin on the wing.
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The Lakers moved to help that issue by re-signing Xavier Henry earlier today, and now, according to ESPN’s Chris Broussard, they have reached an agreement to bring back Wesley Johnson:
Source: Lakers sign Wesley Johnson to 1 year, $1 million deal
— Chris Broussard (@Chris_Broussard) July 19, 2014
The move surely makes sense as the Lakers were in dire need of another small forward, especially one with defensive capabilities. The fact that is a one year deal for minimum money makes the decision an easy one for the Lakers.
Johnson was one of many young players who flashed signs of potential last season for the Lakers. An excellent athlete, he used that athleticism to excel on the defensive end, especially as a weak-side shot blocker.
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His shooting, however, was inconsistent throughout the season and at times he seemed hesitant to take open shots. This led to him falling out of favor at times during the season for guys like Kent Bazemore and Xavier Henry.
With the team constructed the way it is now, Johnson will have an excellent chance to produce as he could very well start next season due to his defensive capabilities.
There were questions on whether or not Johnson would be brought back, but now that he is, the Lakers roster is set for the most part. Johnson makes twelve players on the team, and with Ryan Kelly possibly being brought back, there is little room for anyone else.
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