If there was ever a time that Lance Stephenson needed to prove his worth to the Indiana Pacers, it is now. The guard is approaching free agency and could be in for a solid pay raise as one of the league's best developing talents. Statistically, Stephenson is coming off his best regular season of his young career, leaving many teams pining for talent like his. However, failure to produce in the postseason could severally hurt his stock.
The biggest knock on Stephenson is consistency. Hiding behind the shadow of George Hill, Stephenson put up 13.8 points and 7.2 rebounds a game. That has made him an intriguing prospect for many teams. LakersNation.com is reporting that Stephenson has caught the eye of the Los Angeles Lakers who are hoping to land a big name in free agency. In need of talent to play alongside Kobe Bryant, the Lakers have tossed around names like Carmelo Anthony, but that might not be an option thanks to contract demands.
The Lakers reportedly like Stephenson because they can sign him to a slightly smaller contract and still get plenty of production out of him. He would be a cap friendly acquisition and young enough to develop for the future when Bryant eventually calls it a career. The Lakers could plan on moving Bryant to the three position in order to allow Stephenson to be a starter, something he is aiming for.
A lot of Stephenson's future in the league depends on how he handles the postseason. The guard has come under fire after a "heated conversation" with teammate Evan Turner along with his on-the-court behavior as the team struggles. Many teams are looking at Stephenson as a future star of the league and are waiting for him to act like it.
Along with Stephenson, what other free agent stars do the Lakers have interest in? Point guard Kyle Lowry a looking like a prospect for Los Angeles. Bleacher Report is reporting that Lowry is a target, but an unrealistic one. The Lakers are looking to create their backup plan as the health of Steve Nash has left his future in question. Nash remains under contract from one more season and plans on playing as long as his body allows it. Los Angeles is considering a top point guard if the veteran cannot step on the court.
Lowry is unrealistic simply because of price. The point guard proved to be a star in the postseason for the Toronto Raptors and will have the attention of every team in free agency. While he has hinted that a return to the Raptors is his top option, expect the Lakers to at least pick up the phone.