LA could look to add another young scorer.
The former 24th pick in the 2020 draft, R.J. Hampton, could potentially be up for grabs soon. Orlando Magic reporter Khobi Price reported that the young guard will not be traveling with the team to Chicago tomorrow and could be looking for a new role elsewhere.
The Lakers were one of the most active teams at this season’s trade deadline as they looked to make some big changes to their roster. They brought in a decent amount of younger, more versatile players and set themselves up with more money to spend in the offseason. However, they still have one open roster spot that they are reportedly going to use in the buyout market.
Could R.J. Hampton help fill some of the Laker’s needs at this point in the season? He has close to 35% from three in his career and LeBron James does play best when surrounded by players that can space the floor. He also is ultra-athletic and can make big plays at the rim when he gets a full head of steam.
The downfall of Hampton’s time with the Magic was that he was trying to crack a rotation that featured other promising guards such as Marielle Fultz, Jalen Suggs, and Cole Anthony. It does beg the question of whether he would be able to find a consistent role on the Lakers with their own new addition of players.
Hampton was one of the most hyped players in his class coming into the league, especially with his non-traditional route to the league along with LaMelo Ball. He is still just 22 years old and the Lakers have taken chances on players with similar basketball resumes such as Malik Monk and Lonnie Walker.
Hampton would be a low risk move if they choose to give him a shot and maybe playing for the purple and gold will serve as a boost for his career.
