Following a challenging 2023-2024 season, the Los Angeles Lakers view the upcoming offseason as a crucial opportunity to enhance their roster and improve their chances of winning. The guard positions, in particular, require significant attention.
Fortunately, with many players entering free agency next season, the Lakers will have ample opportunities to evaluate potential new signings.
Additionally, many fans will be hoping for fresh blood to better their odds at sportsbooks like these crypto betting sites that, according to crypto expert Nick Pappas, offer the complete package service expected in traditional sports betting sites.
Given the team’s need for fresh talent and their position with the 11th-largest payroll in the league, we will explore the top five budget-friendly free-agent guards who could bolster the Lakers’ lineup and boost their championship prospects.
De’Anthony Melton
The first potential signing the Lakers must consider is De’Anthony Melton, a talented shooting guard who could bring valuable starting experience from his time with the 76ers. His performance in that position has demonstrated his defensive versatility. However, an injury that happened last season could impact his market value and betting odds, and the Lakers might consider this factor along with the potential contributions he can bring.
Alec Burks
Alec Burks, who has played a crucial role in the New York Knicks’ lineup with his exceptional offensive plays, is a likely potential for the Lakers. His scoring ability, especially in critical moments, has caught the attention of many fans and sports bettors and has improved his team’s odds with many online sportsbooks. However, the team must consider that despite being a good shooter, his defense plays have some limitations.
Josh Okogie
Josh Okogie is another talented shooting guard the Lakers can put on their wish list. His reputation as a tenacious defender who can contest shots effectively and disrupt passing lanes could work wonders for the team, and his scoring potential is also impressive. He can potentially boost the team’s skill level and odds of winning. However, Okogie’s lack of playmaking skills can work against his chances of being signed by the team.
Josh Richardson
Josh Richardson is an experienced shooting guard who can bring a valuable mix of 3-and-D skills to the Lakers. His knack for scoring down three-pointers while locking opponents on defense makes him a noteworthy free-agent prospect for the team. However, Richardson’s journeyman reputation—as he has played for many teams—brings to question how he will fit in well with the team, which is something management must consider before signing him.
Monte Morris
Lastly, Monte Morris is a versatile combo guard who could work wonders with the Lakers. His point-of-attack defense is tremendous at creating turnovers and disrupting opponents, and offensively, Morris can contribute the much-needed playmaking and stability the Lakers need. His excellent decision-making and court vision could elevate the team’s performance and betting odds. Significantly, Morris could complement the team’s star players and fill crucial gaps during play to bolster the Lakers’ defense. Morris’ shooting abilities can also add depth to the team’s offensive arsenal.