Lakers could target former NBA champion if he hits the buyout market

The Los Angeles Lakers could hold interest in acquiring Kyle Lowry. The veteran guard was recently traded to the Charlotte Hornets as part of the deal to send Terry Rozier to the Miami Heat. Lowry is expected to be rerouted via trade or have his contract brought out by Charlotte.

According to The Athletic's Jovan Buha, the Lakers are expected to hold interest in acquiring Lowry on the buy-out market, should the opportunity arise.

"According to team and league sources, Kyle Lowry, who could be available if he’s bought out by Charlotte after being traded there from Miami this week, is one name to watch for the Lakers," Buha wrote.

Lowry, 37, is no longer the player he once was. He isn't a stifling point-of-attack defender. He can't break down defenses off the dribble as frequently. And, he lacks the explosiveness to finish around the rim in traffic. He is, however, a veteran guard in his 18th season. He understands how to win. 

Furthermore, Lowry would be a reliable bench guard for the Lakers. He can still score from the perimeter, and when he creates space for himself, is a reliable shot-maker. In 37 games for the Heat this season, he averaged 8.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4 assists, shooting 42.6% from the field and 38.5% from three-point range.

Rob Pelinka could likely sign Lowry for the veteran minimum. He would be an inexpensive bench upgrade. He would also be another member of the roster who understands what it takes to win a championship. 

It would be interesting to see how Lowry dealt with the pace of the Lakers' play, though. They rank eighth in the NBA, whereas the veteran guard has spent the season with Miami, who sit 28th in the NBA's pace rankings. 

It's fair to wonder whether a veteran guard in the final chapter of his career sustains such an up-tempo playing style. Still, if Darvin Ham believes Lowry can make a difference, Pelinka will likely look to sign the veteran to a short-term deal. After all, it would be a low-risk, high-reward move that may or may not move the needle.