Lakers News: LA Signing Former LeBron James Teammate And Another Longtime Vet
The Los Angeles Lakers have looked to fill out some gaps in their roster ahead of a potential deep playoff run and some familiar names to NBA fans will be rocking the Purple and Gold for the time being.
When LA first announced a couple of weeks ago that Tristan Thompson would be brought in for a workout along with Tony Bradley, the majority of the NBA world viewed the invite as merely a product of Thompson's being friends with superstar LeBron James.
However, it was reported soon after that the former champion big man was in great shape and impressed most of the Lakers' trainers. The writing was on the wall considering some open spots in LA's lineup and news broke Sunday morning that Thompson had ultimately made the cut.
"The Lakers are signing two players today to add depth for the postseason, sources told ESPN. L.A. will sign guard Shaq Harrison, a defensive-minded point guard, and Tristan Thompson, a veteran center with playoff experience on LeBron James’ teams in Cleveland. Both players provide insurance at their positions for the roster, with L.A. having players out with injuries late in the season. The Lakers will waive Davon Reed in order to create a roster spot to add a second player."
(Via Dave McMenamin)
During his prime days with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Thompson was one of the best rebounders and defenders in the league. He was a reliable option down low on the LeBron-led squads back then and even though his offensive game wasn't super deep, he possessed an army of hook shots and post moves to service his team.
The 32-year-old hasn't suited up since his stint with the Chicago Bulls about a year ago where he averaged five points and five rebounds on 16 minutes per game. Luckily, he won't be asked for a bigger role than that on the Lakers as he is likely there as insurance for Mo Bamba as he gets comfortable following some games missed with injury.
Other than Thompson, LA's front office is also bringing in more guard depth in the form Shaq Harrison. Yes, that name jumps out to Lakers fans, but he is hardly going to have the on-court impact of the Big Diesel.
Harrison, a solid perimeter defender with a finite offensive game, has been in the NBA since 2017 and has never averaged double digits in points during his time with six different NBA teams. The Lakers are giving the longtime journeyman another chance to showcase he belongs in the league and he'll have to take advantage of any playing time he gets.
By no means will these moves see the Lakers skyrocket into becoming every betting site's favorites to win the title, but they are solid veteran additions. You never know when experience can help you down the line.
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