Things continue to get weird, and expensive, around the NBA for teams that want off of cumbersome contracts. Reports indicate the Phoenix Suns might just buy out pricey guard Bradley Beal, and then stretch his remaining salary to open up space to sign more productive players.
Setting aside the wisdom of such a move, it would set off a frenzy around the league of teams trying to get Beal on a steep discount. Because while he's not worth the $50 mil he'll be paid this year, but at the $5 mil the Lakers could offer? Or the similar terms most teams could? He'd be a steal. Beal is still a guy who can put up 20 a night, is a good secondary ball handler and can space the floor. Can't defend much anymore, but he's still productive.
So would he be a good fit for the Lakers? Better than, say, De'Anthony Melton, who isn't as high profile a player, but would he fill more specific needs for LA?
Meanwhile, the California Classic is here, and this weekend the Lakers saw Dalton Knecht, Bronny James (in limited run) and others take the floor. The results? Pretty good for Bronny in limited burn Sunday.... and a couple clunkers from Knecht. And Saturday was worse. Low energy, flagging effort, especially defensively.
Is it something to worry about?
And finally, the LeBronversations around his future in LA continue. Is there actually any smoke, though? Let alone fire?
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: Bradley Beal on the move?
SEGMENT 2: Would he be a good fit in LA?
SEGMENT 3: Summer League!
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