July 20, 2018, forward Michael Beasley agreed to a one-year, $3.5 deal with the Los Angeles Lakers. This summer the Lakers have been simultaneously building around their young core and LeBron James.
James agreed to terms with Los Angeles during the beginning of free agency. In addition to landing the King, Los Angles signed other notable names in Lance Stephenson, Rajon Rondo, and JaVale McGee. The Lakers front office also managed to re-sign Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to another one-year deal.
The signing of B-Easy may cause some to scratch their heads and question Magic Johnson, who is the current president of operations for the Lakers. Both Johnson and general manager Rob Pelinka believe that the franchise needs to surround James with playmakers instead of shooters.
OFFICIAL: Lakers sign Michael Beasley
Welcome to the #LakeShow, @Michael8easley!! https://t.co/RhdQfPBkaF
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) July 23, 2018
Beasley Provides Versatility for Young Lakers
Signing the left-handed forward is a solid move for a franchise that is trying to make a playoff appearance for the first time in five seasons. Over the past few seasons, the former Milwaukee Buck has been trying to find a place to call home.
Last season, the Maryland native finished the season averaging 13.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.7 assists. At the end of the 2017-18 season, the 6-foot-9 forward ended the season shooting 50.7 percent from the field and 39.5 percent from three.
Entering his 11thseason the Kansas State product is looking to contribute to a Lakers team filled with young talent. James and Beasley played together for a brief stint during the 2013-14 season. However, this season will be different because of the makeup of the team.
While playing in Miami with James, Beasley struggled to remain on the floor due to his inability to pick up defensive schemes. This year the 2008 draft pick will reinvent himself and be in the conversation for the most improved player award.
Over the year’s fans, analyst and critics anticipated the day, the 10-year vet would live up to the hype. Unfortunately, the forward never tapped into his full potential. Nevertheless, there are three reasons why signing with the Lakers will help the ambidextrous forward win most improved this season.
Here are three reasons why Michael Beasley could win the NBA’s Most Improved Player of the Year Award during the upcoming season:
Next Up: Reason 3
