Los Angeles are suggested to pivot towards Taylor Hendricks to bolster their frontcourt defense and perimeter shooting. While injuries remain a concern, Hendricks' manageable rookie contract and physical tools make him an attractive trade candidate for a Lakers team facing salary cap restrictions.
The Los Angeles Lakers have been trying to acquire a starting forward alongside their new trio of Luka Doncic, Austin Reeves and Walker Kessler for the past few weeks.
The Lakers main targets have been Jonathan Kuminga and P.J. Washington, but no agreements have been reached with either of the proven forwards because of salary cap restrictions.
Therefore, Maxwell Ogden of Lake Show Life suggests that Los Angeles pivot towards a cheaper, but riskier option. He suggests that they should acquire Taylor Hendricks from the Memphis Grizzlies.
Why Taylor Hendricks could make sense for the Lakers
Hendricks' biggest appeal is defensive versatility. At 6'9", he has the length to defend wings on the perimeter while also handling stronger forwards inside. His career 35.4% shooting from three-point range also gives him the potential to provide spacing alongside Luka Doncic.
Financially, Hendricks would offer Los Angeles flexibility. He is owed $7.8 million in the final year of his rookie contract before becoming a restricted free agent next summer, avoiding the long-term commitment required for some of the Lakers' other potential targets.
Memphis may also have reason to listen. The Grizzlies have added significant frontcourt depth, potentially making minutes difficult to find for Hendricks. Ogden suggests Los Angeles could explore a package involving Dalton Knecht or Jake LaRavia, with a future second-round pick if necessary.
Hendricks would carry risk after significant injury problems, but his age, defensive upside, shooting, and manageable contract could make him an intriguing gamble for a Lakers team looking for balance around Doncic.
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