Lakers Mid-Level Exception Gone: Sasha Gets the Nod
The Lakers just signed Sasha Vujacic to a 3 year, $15 million contract, as I made clear they should a few articles back. Only one year ago, that line would be laughable. Now, I find myself writing this relieved. That’s how fast fortunes change in the NBA. And make no mistake, Sasha Vujacic has improved as much as his contract implies. Fearless shooter in the clutch. 39% from 3-point land last year.
Defense? Not so much. Kupchak has already alluded to Sasha continuing his improvement. I have two words for him- foot drills. Sasha has the heart, he needs even more foot conditioning than the standard fare to have him consistently stay in front of players. There is already noted improvement on the defensive end last season, but I (as well as Kupchak) expect to see more of that.
The Celts lost Posey. The Spurs didn’t solve their offensive issues with a big signing like Corey Maggette.
Laker fans can rest assured every core player from last season will be back to make another run for the championship. This time, they will be anchored defensively by 20-year old center Andrew Bynum. Soak in the summer, Laker fans. We are winning the off-season battle so far.
