There a few available free agent guards that are currently intriguing candidates for the Lakers, but 24-year-old Jodie Meeks may be one of the best options out there with mutual interest in coming to Los Angeles.
Reportedly, Meeks has narrowed down his options in free agency to three teams according to Alex Kennedy of Hoopsworld.com:
“I’ve gotten interest from the Lakers, Bucks and Wizards,” Meeks told HOOPSWORLD. “There are five or six teams, but those three are at the forefront right now because I’ve been talking to them the most. I really like those teams and I like what they bring to the table. I’m looking forward to signing, whenever that may be.”
Obviously, the Lakers will give Meeks the best chance to be a part of a winning team in comparison to the Milwaukee Bucks and Washington Wizards. Despite that being the case, the Wizards and Bucks can offer Meeks considerably more money than the Lakers.
Apparently, the appeal of coming to Los Angeles to backup Kobe Bryant is intriguing for the former Kentucky standout. Even though Meeks will get some decent minutes behind Kobe and might flourish playing alongside Steve Nash in the backcourt, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him head to Milwaukee to play behind Monte Ellis or Washington to compete for the starting job with Bradley Beal for more money.
If the Lakers were able to convince Meeks to come to L.A., the sharp-shooter might be able to sign for the mini mid-level of $3 million per season. GM Mitch Kupchak has said that the team only intends to use this exception for great value and that might be what they’ll be getting with younger talent in Meeks.
It seems to be coming down to money or playing for a championship contender for Meeks. The Lakers may be ready to sign the young guard, but are waiting to see how the Dwight Howard trade situation unfolds before using the mini mid-level or signing anymore players.