The Lakers have experienced many difficulties this season, especially the players who have suffered a lot of injuries. James has missed part of the game, and Davis has missed most of the games. Among the Big Three, only Westbrook The attendance rate is relatively high. However, the absolute core of the Lakers are James and Davis. Westbrook's current scoring ability has declined seriously, and there are problems with his shooting level. Even if he can play 78 games, he still cannot lead the Lakers to . Playoffs . In the end, the Lakers' regular season record ranked 11th in the Western Conference. Unfortunately, the team's draft picks were in Daigo's hands, which meant that the Lakers got nothing this season. But there is also a better aspect, that is, some of the Lakers' role players performed well, such as Monk, Rivers, Johnson, Anthony , Bradley and Howard .
In the last offseason, when the Lakers signed Westbrook, many media and players believed that the Lakers had a great chance to win the championship because they formed a Big Three lineup, including Westbrook and James. He is an MVP player, so many role players took the initiative to join the Lakers. Anthony rejected many teams, and Monk also rejected the Mavericks' invitation. Among these role players, the best performer is definitely Monk. During the regular season, he saved the team many times. If it weren't for his efficient performance, the Lakers' regular season record would probably be even worse. Monk played 76 games for the Lakers this season, 37 of which were starts. He averaged 13.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 0.5 steals per game. He shot 47.3% from the field and 39.1% from three-point range. He is James. He is a very reliable shooter around him. In games, you can often see James taking the initiative to pass the ball for him.
Monk joined the Lakers with a contract with a basic salary of 1.79 million. After the Lakers season ended, salary experts also evaluated Monk's worth in the free market. There is a high probability that Monk can get a contract with an annual salary of 10 million, and he will join the Lakers for one year. , his net worth has increased by about 8 million, and I have to say that he has proven his strength. In fact, Monk's own advantage is shooting. He was the 11th pick in the first round of 2017, which shows that his talent is very good, and during his time with the Lakers, it can be seen that he is very decisive in his shots. Even when facing double teams, he can A very confident player who hits three-pointers. However, the Lakers will definitely not provide him with a contract with an annual salary of 10 million. There is a high probability that they can only offer him a mid-level contract. For him, the reason for such good performance has a lot to do with James. Everyone knows that James is around A shooter is needed, so the Lakers gave Monk a lot of opportunities.
James' main position in the Lakers is point guard, and his passing level is among the top in the league. Many of Monk's outside three-pointers are passed by James, so it is best for Monk to reduce his salary and keep him. In the Lakers, only James is the most suitable for him. If he goes to another team, he may not adapt. If the playing time decreases, it will be difficult to get a contract in the future. In fact, it can be seen from his own remarks that staying with the Lakers is his first choice, as long as the Lakers show sincerity. From a rational point of view, the Lakers offer an annual salary of about 6 million to a player like Monk. The contract is quite reasonable. It does not affect the team's salary structure and can make Monk happy.
In addition to keeping Monk, the Lakers had better keep Bradley and Howard. These two players are also very suitable to play next to James and Davis. Howard is also capable of getting double-doubles during the regular season. And now inside players are more popular in the free market. With a minimum salary, it is difficult to sign a player like Howard. Once the Lakers give up on Howard, there will be many teams willing to sign him with a minimum salary. The same is true for Bradley. His defense is very good and he also has certain outside ability. Now that Caruso is no longer in the team, he can take Caruso's position, and he is also a player with a minimum salary. From the Lakers management Judging from their attitude, it is possible for these players to stay, unless they want to change teams.The Big Three of the Lakers all have maximum-salary contracts, and signing with a minimum salary is a test of luck. Members who are suitable for your team must stay.
James is now 37 years old. He has one year left on his contract with the Lakers. James has already won four championships. He will definitely pursue a fifth championship in the rest of his career. Of course, there are Playing ball with his son. The Lakers management hopes that James can play until he retires, but currently James has no idea of renewing his contract. After all, a player of his level does not have to worry about a maximum salary contract. Many teams are willing to provide him with contracts. Judging from reports from some reporters, if James does not renew his contract, he is likely to return to the Cavaliers. After all, the Cavaliers now have two young All-Stars and some very high-quality role players. This may To make James' heart beat, of course, you must also ensure that James' son will be selected in the future.
There are currently many rumors about the Lakers, such as Irving teaming up with James again, the Lakers signing Wall with a minimum salary, etc. In today's free market, the Lakers' competitiveness will be much smaller. Those who have the strength and want to compete for the championship Players may give priority to teams such as the Warriors, Celtics or Heat . The Lakers were a championship team two years ago, but now it is difficult to reach the playoffs. The management's operations are the direct reason. If the Lakers still find it difficult to achieve good results next season, then the Lakers boss may be replaced. Members of management. It is more important for the Lakers to retain Monk, Anthony, Bradley and Howard. It is difficult to find such role players in the free market. Of course, if there is an opportunity to trade Westbrook, the Lakers will also need to seize it. I hope James Can continue to win championships in the rest of his career.
