The Los Angeles Lakers have made some big moves this offseason. Despite not having a ton of cap space, they were able to land a handful of key free agent additions that vastly improved their roster. Two Lakers free agent signings came from buyout candidates whom they were able to sign for cheap.
Now it sounds like a new former star could become a buyout candidate later this season.
Evan Sidery reported Thursday that Middleton is a player to watch among the NBA’s contenders.
“Multiple contending teams are monitoring Khris Middleton’s future with the Wizards.
On a $33.3 million expiring contract, plus an extensive injury history, teams are not willing to offer notable compensation in a trade. Middleton is a strong buyout candidate at some point.”
If the Lakers could sign a third key role player from the buyout market, it would be incredible. They’ve already picked up DeAndre Ayton and Marcus Smart on cheap contracts. If Middleton gets bought out by the Washington Wizards, the Lakers would definitely be one of the teams lining up to take a look at Middleton.
While Middleton’s health is definitely an issue, he is still only 33 years old. The Lakers are already going to play a 40-year-old heavy minutes this season, and Middleton could have a lot left in the tank.
Just a season ago, he was averaging over 15 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game. If the Lakers were able to get Middleton for cheap as a buyout free agent, and he could produce like this again, it would be another huge addition to an already fairly loaded roster.
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If healthy, a player like Middleton could push the Lakers into the upper echelon of Western Conference contenders. The Lakers need to keep a close eye on Middleton, and if he becomes available, they need to pounce quickly.
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