NBA Rumors: Michael Beasley Trade Would Bring Lakers Much Needed Offensive Punch

Sure, the Los Angeles Lakers could use an upgrade at point guard—that's been clear since they tried to trade for Chris Paul.

But the team could also use an infusion of scoring, which is why trading for Michael Beasley of the Minnesota Timberwolves makes a lot of sense.

According to Chris Broussard of ESPN, Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak has inquired about the forward:

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He's spoken to Minnesota about Michael Beasley, and sources say the Lakers are intrigued by the Timberwolves' small forward. The Lakers were actually in discussions with Minnesota about a potential trade for Beasley before the season started. If they would have been able to pull off the deal for Chris Paul, there is a good chance that a trade for Beasley would have followed.

It's not clear what the Lakers would give Minnesota for Beasley (if indeed the talks get that far), but the Lakers could absorb Beasley into their $8.9 million trade exception while giving up a draft pick or cash.

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The Lakers don't exactly light up opponents on the offensive end, as they are currently 21st in the NBA in points per game (93.3). And if there's one area where Beasley continues to show potential, it's in his ability to score.

No, he hasn't exactly lit up opponents this season—and as Broussard noted, the Timberwolves have soured on his lack of maturity—but he did average 19.2 points and 5.6 rebounds in Minnesota last season.

Clearly, the potential is there for greater things.

A no-nonsense alpha male in the locker room like Kobe Bryant and the veteran presence of Derek Fisher might be the sort of leadership that Beasley needs to recognize his potential. Being surrounded by players that both set a professional example on a daily basis and will call out Beasley if he isn't handling his business could be the jolt he needs to grow up a little.

If the Lakers can get Beasley at a reasonable rate, it seems like a low-risk, high-reward play for the team. Beasley may be the surprising piece that could turn an odd and chaotic season in L.A. into a campaign highlighted by a deep playoff run.

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