The Los Angeles Lakers signed Avery Bradley to a two-year, $9.7 million deal. The Lakers were in desperate need of 3 and D players. Bradley brings that to the table.
Last season while on the Memphis Grizzlies, he averaged 16.1 points and four assists per game, but he only played in 14 games. He has battled injuries in each of the last two years. Bradey has been known for his defensive ability.
Bradley is a good perimeter defender and shot 36 percent from three for his career. Not a great percentage, but respectable enough. By playing with Anthony Davis and LeBron James, Bradley should have a lot of open three-point looks.
Signing Bradley was good for the Lakers because he can guard guard opposing teams point guards. It will be essential for Bradley to be able to guard point guards with LeBron James possibly running the point at times for the Lakers. It would free LeBron to guard another wing player and not chase around guards.
The Lakers lacked 3 and D players last year. So, adding Avery Bradley and Danny Green is a sight for sore eyes for Laker fans. Bradley and Green will likely take on the toughest defensive matchups on a nightly basis. It will be crucial for Bradley to remain healthy throughout the season. If he can, he could be the steal of free agency.
Lamarr Fields is a Contributor for the Unwrapped Sports Network website. Follow him @raiderway83 on Twitter.