Los Angeles Lakers Considering Free Agent Michael Beasley as Next Option; Will He Sign?
One of the more underrated free agent players of this offseason is Michael Beasley.
Beasley obviously didn't bring in the national attention like LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Bosh or even Dywane Wade did during free agency, but this young man has skills and a big upside.
According to multiple reports, the Los Angeles Lakers brought in Beasley for a workout on Wednesday. No heavy contract negotiations or offers have been known to take place.
Beasley is currently a free agent and has played in the NBA for six seasons. Unfortunately for Beasely, he's been a journeyman, as he's played for three different teams in his six seasons, which also include the Miami Heat twice. After the Heat drafted Beasley No. 2 overall in 2008 after Derrick Rose, he was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves, then signed with the Phoenix Suns, and in 2013 he signed back with Heat.
His most impressive season came in 2010, when he averaged more than 19 points per game on 45 percent shooting with the Timberwolves. After starting 170 games in his first three seasons, Beasley has started just 29 games in his last three years. Of course, his total numbers have decreased because his playing time has declined the last four seasons, but his production and efficiency has remained the same. Beasley is still an effective rebounder and scorer when he's on the floor.
The Lakers have been relatively quiet this offseason, for their standards. The team lost power forward Pau Gasol, who helped them win two NBA Championships, but they did claim Carlos Boozer off waivers. Although Boozer is a talented forward who can grab a lot rebounds, he is turning 33 years old this November, while Beasley is just 25. This could be a steal for the Lakers, especially if they can lock up Beasley in a long term contract.
The Lakers and Head Coach Byron Scott will have to use Beasley carefully. He has had multiple off-the-court issues, most notably drugs and altercations with players and fans. He obviously wants a lot more playing time and seeks a role in the starting lineup. A two headed monster with Boozer and Beasley in the front-court combined with Jeremy Lin and Kobe Bryant could be a dangerous lineup for opposing teams.
This could be a great opportunity for Beasley. The once college standout at Kansas State could finally get his career on the right path and prove many doubters wrong. If Beasley can win games in Los Angeles he'll be one of the most loved athletes in the city. Beasley needs to listen to Scott, who has won three NBA Finals as a player and a Coach of the Year award in 2008. Beasley knows he has a short leash, and as soon as starts acting up, he could be cut. That's assuming he is signed.
If the Lakers can bring in Beasley and he increases his work ethic and attitude, this could be a great combination.
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