With the recent news of Steve Nash's season ending injury, the Lakers are scrambling to find a legitimate replacement for the 2-time former MVP. Although Jeremy Lin is likely the potential starting point guard there are still plenty of stronger and better point guards that the Lakers should keep their eyes on. I've compiled a list of reputable starting point guards that would not only fit perfectly within the Lakers squad, but most importantly be a viable PG for the future.
Trade options:
Phoenix Suns have plenty of quality starting point guards, most notably Goran Dragic, who has come off a spectacular 2013-14 season. Dragic is entering his last year with the Suns, with a player option for the 2015-16 season. Dragic is making close to 8 million this year, and unfortunately in order for the Lakers to have any shot at the Dragon they'll most likely have to give up their coveted rookie, Julius Randle. However, the Lakers are in a dire situation at the PG position and Randle, who shows great potential, would be perfect to trade away, especially since he's a rookie. Whereas Dragic is a proven All-star caliber PG who will remain at the top of his game for at least 8 more seasons.
Boston Celtics and Rajon Rondo have reached the end and the Lakers will likely look to Rondo as a short term answer. The Celtics are in full rebuilding mode, furthermore, Rondo wants no part of the Celtics anymore. So with that in mind, a trade for Rondo might be easier than what most insiders believe. The Lakers have shown that they are not afraid to trade away their draft picks, and with their potential 2015-16 first round pick already going to the Suns (exempt are any top 5 picks) the Lakers will likely be willing to part with their other future draft picks because lets face it, the Lakers are going to shop for a big name free agent rather than find the next star in the draft. But Danny Ainge has a proven track record of demanding a lot for anyone on his roster. In the case of Randle, a trade for Rondo will likely be the worst option for the purple and gold, since resigning Rondo isn't guarenteed and furthermore, his injuries may be too much for the Lakers to handle, especially after the Nashcapades. However, the Celtics has shown interest in the past for Jordan Hill, and Jordan Clarkson with a potential first round pick would be enticing for Ainge and the Celtics.
Minnesota Timberwolves banked off the Kevin Love trade, and they've made it clear that they don't think Rubio is worth a max contract. Rubio would compliment most of the players on the roster, and he brings a much needed defensive presence out on the perimeter. But riding off the tail end of the Love trade, it'll be likely that the Timberwolves will request more assets then what Rubio is worth, particularly a first round pick, which the Lakers will not likely be willing to give up for a player of Rubio's talents. So who can the Lakers give up for Rubio? Well, Steve Nash's expiring contract may be appealing, and with his veteran presence that could be the last piece to turn their rookie filled roster to an actual competitive team. Throw in Ed Davis and that might very well be an enticing trade.
Philadelphia 76ers quietly put Michael Carter Williams on the trading block last year, and for good reason, they're team isn't very good and they are content with throwing away a season to find that one superstar in the draft. With that in mind, the Lakers can possibly get MCW for a lowly first round pick, which is a fantastic deal for the purple and gold. MCW would be the ideal fit for the Lakers as he brings much needed length to the back court, his defense is impeccable, and playing next to Kobe can possibly turn MCW into a legitimate All-star PG. In addition, the 76ers have shown that they aren't too picky with what they get back, so long as there are first-round draft picks in the mix.
Nash's injury shouldn't have surprised Laker fans, as he's been struggling with nagging injuries since he came to LA. But his injury may be a blessing in disguise. Nash still has his mind and his veteran presence will affect Lin and Clarkson for the better. But if the Lakers aren't confident in they're two young PG then the options I've listed would be great replacements. I for one would love to see MCW in a Lakers uniform, but until then, la la land will have to wait and see.
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