Since Kobe Bryant retired and James joined the Los Angeles Lakers, their point guard configuration has been obviously insufficient. Although relying on the efforts of James and Mei combination and inside players such as Howard and McGee, the team was able to win the 17th championship trophy in team history. However, there is a lack of personnel in the backcourt and they can only rely on Green and Rondo. Westbrook's arrival also failed to significantly improve the record, and even put the team in danger of the playoffs.

Westbrook’s failed experiment

It was originally expected that the Lakers would use Westbrook as the main offensive force to fight in the playoffs and maintain the status of James and Big Eyebrows. However, the reality did not match expectations. The Lakers gradually fell into a quagmire of defeat, and the cooperation between the three major stars failed to achieve the desired results. Therefore, they were forced to make major adjustments in the middle of the season, trading Westbrook away from the team and introducing versatile guard Russell.

Russell's brief moment of glory

After playing for the Lakers, Russell showed top guard strength. With outstanding leadership, he helped the Lakers advance to the playoffs and achieved excellent results against the Grizzlies and Warriors, especially setting a good example for No. 3 overall pick Morant. However, in the next Western Conference Finals, Russell lost to Murray in front of the powerful Nuggets, and his poor performance caused the Lakers to be eliminated.

Disappointment from fans and management

Because Russell's skills are not ideal, Lakers fans have a strong desire to trade him. However, the Lakers management tried to trade Russell for Murray to join the Hawks, but the Hawks demanded Reeves in exchange, making the deal impossible. In the end, the Lakers decided to keep Russell and expect better performance from him.

Russell's regular season performance

After his outstanding performance in the regular season last season, Russell's strong offensive ability won widespread praise and eager expectations from his teammates and audiences. However, in the playoffs against the powerful rival Nuggets, he was defeated by Murray, which made people realize Although he has stable basic skills, it is still difficult to cope with the huge pressure at critical moments.

The breakout player the Lakers desperately need

The Lakers understand that their lineup is still lacking a player with extraordinary basketball intelligence, breakthrough, passing ability, and excellent defensive and organizational skills. Murray and Grant were originally scheduled to be introduced, but the deal failed to be completed because Murray was signed by the Pelicans and Grant refused to provide two first-round picks. Therefore, negotiating with the Nets about Simmons' transfer has become a top priority.

Simmons’ potential and value

As a former top pick, Simmons' personal strength is self-evident. Although shooting ability needs to be improved, excellent organizational defense and excellent basketball intelligence are particularly urgently needed for the Lakers. He can share James' organizational responsibilities and has the ability to directly penetrate the inside and create threats. What's more important is that his individual defensive power is huge, and he can handle everything from point guard to center. With him joining, the Lakers will no longer have to fear people like Murray.

The possibility of Simmons joining the Lakers

If this proposal is implemented, the Lakers will usher in a new era. After bidding farewell to Russell, supernova Simmons will join and join hands with James and Davis to form a strong lineup of three top picks, which will put great pressure on other teams. There is no doubt that the addition of Simmons will bring new vitality and hope to the Lakers. His all-round strength will be a useful weapon for the Lakers to pursue the championship.

Lakers' future outlook

With the addition of Simmons, the Lakers' lineup quality and overall strength have achieved major breakthrough improvements. His addition relieves the pressure on James and Davis, injects more power into critical momentary duels, and broadens the team's future development space.