Lakers Trade Rumors: Michael Beasley Would Be Excellent Fit for Los Angeles
There has been plenty of talk regarding the Los Angeles Lakers subtracting by dealing big man Pau Gasol, but if L.A. can reel in Minnesota Timberwolves forward Michael Beasley without giving up much, it would be a major win.
According to Chris Broussard of ESPN, the Lakers have interest in the talented T'Wolves player, and they may only have to give up draft picks and/or cash because they can take on his contract thanks to their sizable trade exception. Apparently Beasley is still too immature for Minnesota's liking, making a trade very possible.
The Timberwolves already have a ton of good, young forwards like Kevin Love, Derrick Williams and Wesley Johnson, so Beasley is certainly expendable. Beasley is averaging just 12.6 points and 5.4 rebounds on the season in only seven starts, making him a prime candidate to be dealt by the trade deadline.
Despite speculation about Gasol possibly being traded to Minnesota, Broussard said that the Lakers and Timberwolves haven't discussed Gasol since prior to the season. With that said, it seems far more likely that the Lakers will try to reel in Beasley without giving up any key roster players.
Even with all of the concerns about Beasley's character, he would be well worth the risk for Los Angeles. I understand that mixing Beasley with the perpetually-crazy Metta World Peace could produce an explosive atmosphere in the locker room, but the Lakers need to improve on the court and worry about off-court issues later.
Beasley was the No. 2 pick in the draft just a few years ago and averaged over 19 points per game last season. Perhaps his attitude prevents him from realizing his full potential, but in a winning environment like Los Angeles, there is a good chance that Beasley will finally blossom into the player everyone thought he could be.
With the Lakers he would be a sure-fire starter, but he also wouldn't be counted upon to be the main guy. Kobe Bryant is going to carry the offensive load as long as he's still around, while Gasol and Andrew Bynum do plenty of heavy lifting as well in the paint.
There are only so many players that an opposing defense can key in on, so Beasley would likely receive plenty of open looks. Beasley is deadly when it comes to shooting the mid-range jumper, and he can even step back and hit three pointers at a very solid clip.
Obviously Los Angeles could use a point guard, but a wing scorer is a necessity as well. World Peace and Matt Barnes have both had major issues when it comes to making the most of their opportunities, so an effective small forward could make all the difference in the world for the Lakers.
Beasley has never been given a real opportunity to shine as he was maligned while with the Miami Heat and is now being buried on the depth chart with the Timberwolves. There is no question that he would have a chance to contribute in a big way with the Lakers, and there is reason to believe he would reward Los Angeles by elevating his game.
