The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly eyeing a move to bolster their three-point shooting, with Detroit Pistons shooting guard Malik Beasley emerging as a potential target.
After a tough 131-119 loss to the Utah Jazz, where the Lakers’ three-point struggles were evident despite a 40% shooting night, the team is looking to address its inconsistent deep-range efficiency.
Currently ranked 17th in the league with a 36% three-point shooting rate, the Lakers believe Beasley could be the solution to elevate their offense.
Malik Beasley, 28, is having a career-best season with the Pistons, shooting 41.8% from beyond the arc on a career-high 9.4 attempts per game. With 212 three-pointers, he broke the Pistons’ single-season record and surpassed Saddiq Bey’s previous record of 211. His performance has been historic. Beasley scored 24 points and made seven of 10 three-pointers in a recent 132-92 thrashing of the Chicago Bulls, showcasing his abilities.
The Los Angeles Lakers’ interest in Malik Beasley stems from their need for a reliable perimeter shooter to complement the playmaking of Luka Doncic and LeBron James. Both stars struggled in the loss to the Jazz, combining for eight turnovers and a -29 plus-minus rating. Adding Beasley could provide the Lakers with a consistent drive-and-kick option, enhancing their offensive versatility.
Beasley, a former Laker, had a brief stint with the team during the 2022-23 season after being traded from the Jazz. While he averaged 11.1 points, his three-point shooting dipped to 35.3% in 26 games. However, his current form suggests he could offer significant improvement if he returns to Los Angeles.
The guard signed a one-year, $6 million deal with the Pistons last offseason, aiming to secure a long-term contract in 2025. His breakout season has positioned him as a sought-after free agent, and the Los Angeles Lakers could make a strong push to reunite with him.
As one analyst noted, “Beasley’s ability to stretch the floor would be invaluable for a team with two elite passers like Doncic and James.”
If the Los Angeles Lakers can secure Malik Beasley, it could be a game-changer for their championship aspirations, providing the shooting boost needed to compete with the league’s best. (NBA)