Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
The Los Angeles Lakers could be competitors for DeMarre Carroll’s services in the offseason.
Carroll has had a very good season as a two-way player for one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference, and would be an interesting pickup for the Lakers. They could use someone with his outside shooting and defensive capability, and it would be a good fit next to Kobe Bryant.
Carroll had his best statistical season this year, understanding his role as a defensive specialist who was capable of spacing the floor on offense. He would often match up with the opposing team’s best perimeter scorer, and was one of the better defenders in the league. He has excellent size and strength on the wing, making it tough for players to score on him. Offensively, he has become a more efficient player, greatly improving his outside shot so that teams must respect him. He shot almost 40 percent from beyond the arc, making the most 3-pointers in his career.
The Lakers have many holes throughout the roster, and will need quality role players even as they try to lure a superstar. With Bryant still on the team, the Lakers need to make sure they have quality defense, toughness, and shooting next to him in order to maximize his talents. Carroll would be a very good fit, and he is currently gaining valuable experience in the playoffs that will serve him well in the future.
One problem may be that Carroll has played his way into a larger contract, but the Lakers will have some cap room to work with in the offseason. Their first priority will be to find another star to pair with Bryant, but it would not hurt for them to find the right supporting cast to give them a deeper roster. Carroll would be a good option for the organization, and they should strongly consider pursuing him this offseason.
