3 players the Lakers need to get in free agency if LeBron retires

2. Bruce Brown

The Lakers should be familiar with what Bruce Brown brings to the table at this point. Brown has been an important figure off the Nuggets’ bench all season, stuffing the stat sheet and doing the small things to help Denver secure the 1-seed and advance to the NBA Finals for the first time in franchise history.

Brown is one of the league’s absolute best role players. He doesn’t create his own offense, but he’s a good enough 3-point shooter to keep the defense honest (35.8 percent) and he’s an excellent finisher around the rim. He has a real knack for off-ball movement and connective playmaking. He’s always cutting, relocating, and making snappy decisions with the ball. He’s a real lubricant for the offense.

At 6-foot-4, Brown is a remarkably versatile defender. His 6-foot-9 wingspan allows him to defend much taller than his listed height and while his frame appears wiry at first glance, he is quite stout at the point of attack. He battles for position and is comfortable switching 1-4 in a lot of matchups.

The Lakers will need someone to fill minutes on the wing if LeBron retires. Brown won’t replace James’ self-creation or rim pressure, but he’s a willing and free-flowing passer who can absolutely start for a competitive team. Brown is due for a significant pay raise this summer, but the Lakers should have the flexibility to make it happen with James’ contract off the books.