La Lakers legend James Worthy shared his views on the latest recruiting of team Jake Lalavia.
The team signed Jay Claravia on a two-year, $12 million deal when the free agency opened.
He comes to La Lakers after stinting with the Memphis Grizzlies and Sacramento Kings.
Laravia shot 42% from the 3-point range last season, adding much needed depth to the team’s frontcourt.
James Worthy expressed his happiness in the move, as he believes the 23-year-old can benefit from playing with good players around him.
The Lakers have one of the most stacked offensive trioes of LeBron James, Luka Donsic and Austin Reeves.
JJ Redick is well aware of the trio’s ability to score over 20 points each night, but he is also a sensational creator of his teammates.
But Worthy believes that playing with “magnets” like Doncic might really be useful for shooters like Laravia.
Speaking on the Lake Show podcast, the former Laker said:
“There are Luka playing with the biggest magnets in the game, eight of 10 plays he enters paint, and four players lying around him. He can find those people if he can move to the level and gain vision.”
Worthy also pointed out that players like James and Reaves help promote Lalavia’s shots, knocking down shots comfortably.
“I think he’ll find some shots. LeBron is another guy who breaks down defense, Austin Reeves, he can break up defense.
“So if you’re a savvy guy who knows how to drop to the ball’s level and be captivated, you’ll benefit from it,” the three-time champion said.
Lalavia brings floor spacing for the Lakers. This will greatly support the team with the trio of James, Don Sic and Reeves.
He joined the NBA as one of the best shooting games in the 2022 draft class.
The player shot 38% from the 3-point range in his final year at Wake Forest, but he was also reliable on the defensive side of the floor.
Last season, the Lakers lacked the size to compete with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Lalavia could be a player to support them.
He can play center in a small ball lineup and also play as a forward if the Lakers succeed in pursuing center.
Deandre Ayton is rumoured to be a player that the Lakers are interested in. Once the team secures a contract to sign him, Laravia can get off the bench and play a valuable few minutes.
He is definitely not a starter, but Brian Windhorst reported that several teams are interested in getting his services.