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NBA • 10 months ago

5 Reasons Why the Los Angeles Lakers Must Sign Khris Middleton

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Reasons Why the Los Angeles Lakers Must Sign Khris Middleton

Khris Middleton Los Angeles Lakers Free-Agency — Khris Middleton was terrific in his third season with the Milwaukee Bucks. He averaged 13.4 points and 4.4 rebounds per game. What makes Middleton intriguing is his versatility and shooting ability. Middleton can defend both wing spots with ease and at times even defends power forwards. The 23-year-old is without question one of the most underrated players in the league. In the postseason, Middleton scored 18 or more points in four of six games.

Khris Middleton was terrific in his third season with the Milwaukee Bucks. He averaged 13.4 points and 4.4 rebounds per game. What makes Middleton intriguing is his versatility and shooting ability. Middleton can defend both wing spots with ease and at times even defends power forwards. The 23-year-old is without question one of the most underrated players in the league. In the postseason, Middleton scored 18 or more points in four of six games.

5. Potential

5. Potential

Khris Middleton is only 23 years old and is improving. At Texas A&M, Middleton opened up many eyes because of his smooth looking stroke and his feel for the game. Through three seasons in the league, it's clear that it has translated to the NBA. Middleton displayed his full arsenal in four terrific games against a tough Chicago Bulls defense. If Middleton's game reaches its ceiling, he can be like two-time All-Star Luol Deng.

4. Financial Decision

4. Financial Decision

There are lots of talented wings the Lakers can go after, whether it's Jimmy Butler, Tobias Harris or DeMarre Carroll. The most realistic option for the Lakers is Carroll. The problem is that Carroll will probably cost in the neighborhood of $10-12 million per year. A smarter decision would be to sign Middleton, a player with more potential, for about $8-10 million a year.

3. Defense

3. Defense

Khris Middleton is a consistent defender whp plays hard at all times. At 6-foot-7, 225 pounds, Middleton has the ability to defend both wing spots. When the Bucks played small ball, Middleton would defend the opposing power forward at times. He averaged 1.5 steals per game as well.

2. Shooting

2. Shooting

Middleton's strength is without question his shooting ability. He is an excellent mid-range shooter, whether it's on a catch or off the dribble. He finished tied for 14th in league in three-point shooting (41 percent). Middleton is also a great free-throw shooter (86 percent). The Lakers lack a consistent shooting threat, and Middleton would fill that role immediately.

1. Good Fit

1. Good Fit

Khris Middleton is an unselfish player with no ego. He plays within the system of his team. Most importantly, he does the little things that it takes to win. Middleton is willing to make the extra pass or dive for a loose ball. Middleton also fits a hole the Lakers have had for years at small forward. He is an immediate upgrade over Wesley Johnson.

George Middleton is a Los Angeles Lakers beat writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @george51391, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google

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George Middleton is a writer for RantSports.

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