3 NBA contenders that could absolutely use Eric Gordon

No. 2 potential Eric Gordon landing spot: Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers are perpetually in the market for title-hungry vets who are at all intrigued by the idea of playing with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Eric Gordon’s former agent also happens to run the team, so there’s a built-in connection. Los Angeles was four wins away from the Finals and Gordon would be able to keep whatever house/condo/apartment he started renting in LA last season.

Basketball-wise, the fit is strong. LeBron can get the most out of Gordon as a spot-up shooter. Meanwhile, the veteran’s comfort level handling the ball and running actions with the second unit could make him a strong addition with Austin Reaves, Dennis Schroder, and D’Angelo Russell all hitting the free agent market simultaneously.

Gordon can fit rather seamlessly into any rotation, no matter which guards do and don’t return. Gordon’s days as full-time starter are over, but the Lakers were very reliant on experienced players last season and Gordon would have a clean avenue to important minutes on a winning team.

One potential factor to monitor here is the contract status of Malik Beasley, who could make north of $16 million next season if the Lakers exercise his team option. Beasley was out of the rotation once the playoffs arrived, but he can eat minutes in the regular season while bombing away from 3-point range. How the Lakers proceed with his deal could directly influence the kind of role they can promise Gordon.