Analyst Expects Loss For Lakers’ $36 Million Star In ‘Real Position Battle’

The Los Angeles Lakers were busy this offseason, but kept their core intact. The front office brought most of the players back and added a few more to boost the roster. Gabe Vincent is one of the new additions and his arrival may cause a few issues in LA. Lakers front office may be dealing with a position battle ahead of the start of the new season.

The Lakers gave D’Angelo Russell a really good deal. He is a real threat for Vincent and the Lakers may be forced to make a decision.

Russell signed a two-year deal worth $36 million this offseason. He wasn’t a big factor in the postseason, but the Lakers got his best in the regular season. Russell had a starting role with the Lakers in 17 games, but Vincent may steal his job. Simply said.

The Lakers offered Vincent a three-year deal worth $33 million. He averaged 9.4 points, 2.5 assists, and 2.1 rebounds which was more than enough for the Lakers to try and get him.

Gabe was knocking down shots all game. Never let up. pic.twitter.com/RWP1b8fygK

— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) June 5, 2023

“Vincent … may not have the same stature, but his skill set looks like a better fit for this roster,” wrote Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report about Vincent on August 17. “The real position battle here, though, is which point guard closes games, and again, our crystal ball likes Vincent’s chances.”

Vincent averaged 12.7 points and did 37.8% from deep in Miami’s playoff run.

“His defense can set a tone with this starting group, and his spot-up shooting could shine next to L.A.’s stars,” Buckley wrote. “He isn’t as ball-dominant and is a much more reliable defender, and both of those traits would serve him well as part of the Lakers’ closing lineup.”

Lakers could get the best from this position battle

Getting Vincent comes with a huge challenge for the Lakers. He triggered an avalanche of comments and the Lakers have to find the best way to use him. In 2021-22, Vincent shot 36.8% from long range. Hopefully, he can do this and much more during his time with the Lakers.

The Lakers went 12-5 with Russell in the lineup. He averaged 17.4 points, 6.1 assists, and 2.9 rebounds in this time with the team.

“Russell … might be most helpful as an instant-offense reserve,” Buckley continued. “He could soak up touches with the second team in ways he never would with the starters.”