Lakers News: Why Writer Thinks Malik Beasley Has Played Last Game For LA
On the brink of NBA free agency, there are plenty of bigger questions for the Lakers than the future of Malik Beasley. Specifically, how much will it cost to retain restricted free agents Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura, who both proved vital to the Lakers' ability to outperform expectations in the 2023 postseason?
However, before June 29, the Lakers must decide whether to exercise Beasley's team option of $16.5 million. Even if the Lakers decide to sign Beasley, there is strong potential around the shooting guard.
In the 2023 season, Beasley averaged 11.1 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 23.9 minutes. Not All-Star numbers by any means, and the 11-year veteran was a bit of a disappointment from behind the arc.
BleacherReport writer Eric Pincus predicts that Beasley will not be a Laker once the ball is tipped Oct. 24.
There are quite a few interesting potential trades that Beasley as well as Mo Bamba, whose contract is also set to expire soon, could fuel. Especially if Reaves walks, the Lakers will be in need of strong options at guard; Beasley has yet to prove that he is a viable option.
Jalen Hood-Schifino could solve some of the Lakers' guard woes, although relying on a rookie's potential success is obviously not an ideal Plan A. Using Beasley and Bamba as trade fodder could bring in an obvious starter at guard — maybe even familiar faces like Alex Caruso or Lonzo Ball from Chicago, who seems to be a seller in the trade market.
Getting rid of Beasley could give the Lakers the mobility they need to acquire a star guard and keep their championship window from slamming shut.
