NBA Rumors: Crawford Backs Smith, Believes Lakers Need Him

The Los Angeles Lakers seem good to go, although most believe they are already loaded. General manager Rob Pelinka is putting in small pieces, the last of which was Dion Waiters. But one guy who is left hanging is J.R. Smith. Both worked out with the Lakers with Waiters getting signed.

The decision to sign Waiters seemed self-explanatory. He has seen more action than Smith and brings in the needed shooting for the added offense to the Lakers. However, it may be recalled that the Lakers are reportedly not done. They could waive another player soon and Smith looks like the player they will take in. This was tackled more in a previous post.

With uncertainty still in the air, an NBA veteran is advocating for the Lakers to sign Smith. In a Twitter post, the 39-year-old guard pointed out how the 34-year-old swingman can still be an asset when it comes to shooting. Further, Crawford singled out the familiarity of the 6-foot-6 guard with Lakers' star LeBron James.

The original player that the Lakers were looking for is really a point guard. But with a thinning market and no one making the grade, the purple and gold decided to go in a different direction. They want to load up the wings with shooters with Waiters ultimately being one of them. But according to a report from The Athletic, the Lakers are not yet done.

Ironically, Crawford could be a sensible choice. The only thing the Lakers or any other team would be wary about is his age. Crawford proved last year with the Phoenix Suns that he could still play at a high level. However, that was not enough for other NBA teams to consider him.

Hence, the 8th overall pick is probably doing the next best thing. Backing up Smith is the best he can do although it remains to be seen if his rant will sway the decision of the Lakers. As of now, Los Angeles has not cut anyone from the roster to make space for another shooter.

With the NBA suspending games, Smith may have to wait a bit longer. The coronavirus is getting worse and the health and safety of all are of utmost importance. During this lull, the Lakers could be brainstorming on their next step. All that should be out in the open once the NBA resumes play.