Looking Smooooover?

Recent reports coming out of Atlanta is that high flying Josh “JSmooove” Smith may be on the move. A restricted free agent, the young star has reportedly told friends that he wants out. Smith feels insulted that the Hawks have not shown him much respect in the negotiating process. Recent talk has the Hawks mulling sign and trade offers from two teams. One of the teams being a Western Conference Power. Hmm Lakers? And the other an Eastern Conference Big Dog.

 

Smith is still an unpolished talent but an incredibly gifted athlete with high flying dunks and amazing knack for blocking shots for a wing player. He would help the Lakers in terms of solving what many called their short comings of in terms of interior defense. Add to that the return of Andrew Bynum and that could be something special up front for years to be wreckoned with.

 

Why would the Hawks do this trade? Well if Smith doesnt want to be there and they need to get talent back , then why not a player like Odom whos versatile and once flourished in the Eastern Conference and would give them an expiring contract as an option. The Lakers would benefit from a boost on the defensive side and would get younger not to mention the fact that this is Hollywood and we all know that La La Land loves to be entertained. Smith would almost instantaneously be a new fan favorite.

Sasha Stays

Sasha Vujacic has decided to remain with the Lakers by signing a reported 3 year 15 million dollar deal. Vujacic had given the Lakers an ultimatum to leave for Europe if a deal starting at atleast 5 million per year was not offered. Considering the Lakers already lost Turiaf off their strong bench last year, the Lakers will not willing to call Sasha’s bluff.

 

I personally felt the Lakers should offer him around 3.5 million per year or so for about 5 years. Or, offer him the 5 mill per year he was seeking but for a lesser term like 3 years which is what ultimately Mitch Kupchak did.

 

For what he lacks in athleticism and talent, he makes up for in hustle , determination and work ethic. Outside shooting in the NBA is a lost art and teams are always looking for more shooters so all in all a pretty good deal for both sides considering salaries being thrown around nowadays.