and analyst Tyler Watts argues the team should cut ties with veteran Kevon Looney to keep recently acquired guard Jaden Hardy. This roster decision comes as the Lakers prepare for their next game.
Hardy, a 24-year-old guard, was acquired from the Washington Wizards. He averaged 12.6 points per game and shot an impressive 42 percent from three-point range in 23 games for Washington last season. Watts points to Hardy's $6 million salary and team option for next season as valuable assets. He believes Hardy's confidence and scoring ability make him more ready for NBA minutes than other young players on the roster.
"Hardy will fire away when he gets the ball," Watts wrote. The analyst suggests the 6'3"guard is likely ahead of Bronny James in the rotation because he is more NBA-ready right now."The Lakers should cut Dalton Knecht or Kevon Looney before they dump Hardy."The team's need for a reliable backup big man is clear, but Looney's recent performance has not solidified his role."get buckets" immediately is valued over a project player. If the Lakers cannot find a trade for Knecht, he appears the most likely player to be waived, surrendering any potential future asset return. Fans can track the finalized roster and upcoming schedule on the team's roster page.
