There aren’t many players available in free agency right now who, if signed, could have a significant influence on the Los Angeles Lakers. However, former Toronto Raptors winger Gary Trent Jr., who isn’t going back to his old team, might be a major player.
The Lakers are in desperate need of a two-way wing like Trent. He is a good scorer and shooter who can threaten as a spot-up option or generate opportunities for himself. He also plays strong perimeter defense, so the Lakers would benefit greatly from having him either as a starter or as a backup.
The Lakers have decided to be patient in free agency after failing to sign a few targets, but Trent has the ability to make a difference. Jovan Buha of The Athletic reports that Trent’s choice may change how urgently the Lakers need to free up salary cap money and a roster spot:
Gary Trent Jr. will take his time in free agency, according to The Athletic’s Shams Charania. The Athletic had previously mentioned Trent Jr. as a player to watch for Los Angeles if it can clear payroll and a roster position. Trent’s choice might change how urgent the Lakers are.
The Lakers are currently slightly shy of the second salary cap bracket and have a full roster with 15 guaranteed contracts. The front management would need to make a deal to clear a few players’ roster spots and have the ability to use their taxpayer mid-level exception, which is worth slightly more than $5 million, if they wanted to sign Trent in free agency.
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For the Lakers, trading away any combination of Christian Wood, Jaxson Hayes, and Cam Reddish would be sufficient to win. The Lakers do have some extra second-round picks they could attach to a deal, but they would probably need to add some draft compensation to entice a team with cap room.
The Lakers have found success in the past when they have adopted a patient strategy. However, Trent is a guy worth shifting some things around for, and the front office appears ready to do so if he wants to join the Lakers. Trent has averaged more than 14 points on 38.6% shooting from deep throughout his career.
The Lakers are one of the teams vying for Gary Trent Jr.
However, the Lakers are not the only team vying for Gary Trent Jr.; several other competitors in the league are also showing interest in the wing, and for good reason.
There are other teams in play, but the Milwaukee Bucks are rumored to be among the teams interested in Trent. Naturally, there is rivalry for one of the top free agents still available.
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