Lakers Trade Rumors: Gilbert Arenas Would Surprise in Lakers Uniform

Bear with me when I say this, folks.

Gilbert...Arenas...would...surprise...in...a...Los...Angeles...Lakers...uniform.

I'll give you a second to catch your breath.

OK, you ready?

Here's why.

Chris Broussard of ESPN reported on Friday:

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I'm also told the Lakers may sign Gilbert Arenas after the All-Star break (now) or the trade deadline. Arenas, according to a source, was "explosive'' and "had his athleticism back'' during his recent workout with the Lakers.

"

After Arenas worked out with the Lakers in February, Kobe Bryant voiced his support.

When asked if he would like Arenas on the team, Bryant said, via ESPN, "Sure. It certainly wouldn't hurt, that's for sure."

He's right about that. It wouldn't hurt. If the Lakers continue to use Derek Fisher and Steve Blake at point, I know a few Lakers fans who are going to go insane. No, really, I've heard them mumbling "Los Angeles Clippers" without even noticing it.

Bill Simmons of Grantland.com wrote at the time:

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Not signing him, or not at least shaking things up in some potentially sensational way, is just marking time, letting the past catch up to the present while Kobe blasts back numbers from the farthest reaches of space.

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But beyond Arenas shaking things up, I actually believe he could be a positive contributor to the Lakers.

I know, I can hear you all now: "He brought guns into the locker room!" "He's old!" "He's past his prime!" "He's Gilbert Arenas!"

It's worth noting that Arenas is just 30 years old. Yes, that's not young by NBA standards, but it's not like he's a dinosaur like Fisher. Even if he's not "explosive," as Broussard wrote, he's going to look explosive compared to Fisher.

It also must be said that he actually did try on defense when he joined the Orlando Magic last season. Although he did foul a lot, he was clearly more motivated than he was with the Washington Wizards. His steal numbers don't reflect that, but his one-on-one defense was better.

Everybody thinks Arenas is way past his prime, but let's not forget he averaged 22.6 points, 7.2 assists and 4.3 rebounds with the Wizards just two seasons ago. I don't think he's done yet.

Plus, Arenas has something to prove. That can never be understated.

I'm not saying that Arenas will be the Lakers' savior. What I am saying is that he has the potential to surprise, and there's nothing like a secret weapon when the playoffs come around.

If there's one thing Arenas has, it's energy. Obviously, he needs to channel that a little bit better, but isn't energy what the Lakers need right now?

Arenas could work for the Lakers like Ron Artest used to: add a little crazy to the mix and see what happens.

It's better than the mundane team they have now.