The biggest names of the 2014 NBA trade deadline have already changed teams or re-signed with their former team.

One of the biggest names still remaining on the free agent list is Michael Beasley, who was drafted by the Miami Heat with the No. 2 overall pick in 2008 after a terrific college career at Kansas State. Beasley brings a lot of pros and cons to a team that needs a forward. The Los Angeles Lakers have shown great interest in Beasley lately, bringing him in for multiple workouts.

Beasley could be a good fit for the Lakers, but he would also be a big risk:

Why the Lakers Should Sign Beasley

When you finish the season with a franchise-record 55 losses, you need a lot of help. The Lakers have a new head coach, and Kobe Bryant isn't getting any younger. The addition of Carlos Boozer will help, but he only has one year remaining on his contract. Spain-born power forward Pau Gasol is now with the Chicago Bulls, so the Lakers are thin down low in the paint area.

Beasley isn't the next Tim Duncan or Karl Malone, but he can provide scoring and rebounding. He's not the most consistent player, but when Beasley shows up, he has the ability to take over games. Beasley is also a good free throw shooter for a forward, shooting a career 75.8 percent from the line over six seasons. With Boozer's future in Los Angeles unknown, and an unproven Jordan Hill, the Lakers could choose Beasley for future relief.

The Lakers don't have a very intimidating bench right now either. Adding Beasley could provide depth for next season, especially in late game situations and help when players get injured.

Why the Lakers Should Not Sign Beasley

There's a reason Beasley is still a free agent. No team in the NBA wants him, yet. Beasley has played for the Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, Phoenix Suns, and the Heat a second time. This will be Beasley's fifth team transaction in just seven seasons -- not a very good sign.

Beasley has had multiple problems on and off the court. The Suns released him in 2013 after he was arrested for drug possession. Unfortunately, Beasley has had many drug problems going back to 2008. The Timberwolves chose not to re-sign Beasley in 2012, following his speeding incident and drug possession during the previous year. All of these issues just keep adding up.

It's taken a big toll on Beasley on the court. In his first three seasons, Beasley started 170 games. In the past three seasons, Beasley has started just 29 total games. Because of his off-court incidents, teams are suspect to signing Beasley. If the Lakers sign Beasley, he will most likely have to come off the bench, which he has shown he can do, but is that what Beasley wants? Most likely Beasley wants more playing time.

During the last four consecutive seasons, Beasley's minutes played, rebounds per game and points scored per game have all decreased--which is not a good sign.

Conclusion

Beasley may be more trouble than he's worth. Although he is just 25 years old, Beasley's huge decrease in playing time is alarming. Still, the Lakers could use Beasley off the bench for the right price. The Lakers are being smart by not giving in too early. By showing that no one else is interested, his value is lowering and the Lakers are saving money for a possible signing.

For up-to-date sports news, scores, and more, follow Latin Post Sports on Twitter

FOR MORE NBA NEWS AND NBA TRADE AND FREE AGENCY UPDATES, CLICK ON THIS LINK TO VISIT LATIN POST.COM'S SPORTS PAGE

Related