3 offseason mistakes that could haunt the Lakers

1. Going all-in on Russell Westbrook

The idea of adding a third big-name star to play alongside James and Davis makes all the sense in the world for the Lakers. Unfortunately, the front office opted for a big-name instead of a big-time player that can complement their two superstars.

Westbrook projects as a really poor fit for the Lakers when they reach the playoffs. His lack of shooting and declining defensive ability on the perimeter are both going to show up as huge negatives in the postseason. Los Angeles shouldn’t have parted with their only really valuable trade chips to add a player who is such an awkward fit.

The only real value Westbrook can provide this team is as an offensive force who can soak up possessions during the regular season. He’ll raise Los Angeles’ floor when LeBron and/or AD need to miss time during the regular season. The Lakers massively overpaid for that kind of innings eater.

Keeping their trade powder dry might have frustrated Lakers fans this offseason, but it would have been the right move for the franchise. Los Angeles will always be well-positioned to acquire stars when they become available due to the allure of playing on arguably the NBA’s biggest stage. Westbrook was just the wrong leading man for the Lakers to cast.