3. They Could Really Use Another Reliable Ball-Handler
At the beginning of the season, the Lakers really looked to cut back LeBron James’ minutes, as he was averaging just 31.4 MPG through their first five games. Then, he averaged 33.9 MPG in the month of January and so far this month, LeBron is averaging 40.5 MPG.
Los Angeles and head coach Frank Vogel have made it clear that they want to keep James fresh for the end of the year and for their playoff run, which is why this team could really use another primary ball-handler. LeBron James is basically this team’s point guard and always has the ball in his hands up the court on offense.
Dennis Schroder occasionally brings the ball up and can be a facilitator, but he is much better playing off-the-ball because of his shiftiness and craftiness. Bringing in a guy like George Hill who can not only be a facilitator and floor general, but be an excellent catch-and-shoot player off-the-ball makes a lot of sense for the Lakers.
Not to mention, Hill played with LeBron James in Cleveland during the 2017-18 season and 2018-19 season, so the two are already familiar with one another and know what it takes to get to the NBA Finals together.
Acquiring Hill may be a little bit tough, especially since he is owed $9.5 million this season, but the Lakers could potentially trade away guys like Alex Caruso, Alfonzo McKinnie, and Wesley Matthews to make room for the veteran guard.
Hill is a better overall guard than both Caruso and Matthews and since McKinnie does not play as it is, it would make sense for him to be on the move or just simply cut. Making this move to bring in Hill gives the Lakers another primary ball-handler and takes even more pressure off of LeBron James to do everything for this team.
