When it comes to the NBA, the trade deadline might grab the headlines, but the real action often heats up in the summer. For the Los Angeles Lakers, this offseason could be pivotal, especially with Luka Doncic committed to their long-term vision. The Lakers are clearly gearing up to build around Doncic, and some intriguing names are on their radar.
Among those names, Andrew Wiggins stands out as a potential target. While he has a player option with Miami, the Lakers are reportedly interested.
Other possibilities include Tobias Harris, Quentin Grimes, and Dean Wade. While Wade might not be the flashiest name, he could be a perfect fit in L.A.
Dean Wade is the kind of player who thrives in the shadows, complementing stars like Doncic with his unassuming style. Offensively, he’s low-maintenance but highly effective, boasting a career three-point shooting percentage of 36.4%. With Doncic's exceptional passing, Wade’s shooting could become even more lethal.
Defensively, Wade’s versatility is his calling card. He’s known for his ability to switch seamlessly and take on tough defensive assignments, making him a valuable asset on that end of the floor.
Financially, Wade might be out of Cleveland’s reach due to their cap constraints. His current contract averages $6.2 million annually, which could be a stretch for the Cavaliers. This opens the door for the Lakers, who could see him as an affordable and underrated addition.
The main concern with Wade is his durability. At 29, he has struggled with injuries, playing more than 60 games only once in seven seasons. However, if the Lakers can manage his health effectively, this shouldn’t be a major hurdle.
As the Lakers look to revamp their roster, keeping Wade in mind could be a savvy move. He’s the kind of player who might not make waves in the headlines but could make all the difference on the court.