The Lakers' offseason moves likely haven't lived up to fan expectations. Instead of splashy signings, they've opted to use their limited funds on players they believe will be steals: Marcus Smart at point guard and Deandre Ayton at center. Both were once considered star-caliber, but their performance has declined to the point where their former teams were willing to let them go.
1. It's a far cry from the outlandish trades that fans and certain journalists had been speculating about for months. Moreover, it doesn't resemble the persistent gossip about a massive deal that would ship LeBron James to a different team. 2. This is nothing like the crazy trade scenarios fans and some in the media concocted recently. Nor does it align with the ongoing whispers of a huge transaction involving LeBron James going to another franchise. 3. The reality is a long way off from the wild trade ideas that fans and media personalities were fantasizing about. It also differs significantly from the constant buzz surrounding a potential blockbuster trade that would move star player LeBron James.
1. Despite the unlikelihood, the Lakers might still pull off a surprising trade in the next few weeks, possibly involving James. 2. However, sources both inside the Lakers organization and around the league suggest that L.A. believes in their current team, provided they can stay healthy. 3. There's a strong desire to see what this roster can accomplish.
This implies incorporating Smart and Ayton, but also, at long last, seeing Vanderbilt and Hayes play full, healthy seasons. Furthermore, it involves James showing progress and, naturally, Doncic becoming even more comfortable with the team.
Meanwhile, the Lakers still have roster spots to fill, and given their past success with G League and two-way players, these additions could be significant. On Thursday, the Lakers announced the signing of Chris Manon, a former standout from Cornell who faced challenges and averaged 6.6 points after transferring to Vanderbilt, to a two-way contract.
Manon participated in the Warriors' summer league games, and Dave McMenamin of ESPN mentioned that the Lakers still have an open two-way roster spot.
He posted on Twitter/X: "The Lakers have officially signed Chris Mañon to a two-way deal. They still have one two-way slot open, as Christian Koloko is already signed as their other two-way player."
Manon's offensive shortcomings were clear upon his transition to the SEC, but his path to the NBA was never predicated on his scoring ability. As thesite No Ceilings wrote Regarding Manon: "Chris Manon stands out as a top defensive playmaker in collegiate basketball. Even with a usage rate of 26.6, Manon remained a highly energetic and engaged defender. His stats, including a 5.5% STL, 2.8% BLK, and a 4.1 DBPM, are excellent markers for a guard looking to go pro."
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