Lakers Secure $11 Million Sharpshooter Hours Before NBA Trade Deadline
The Los Angeles Lakers made a significant move just hours before the NBA trade deadline. They secured sharpshooter Luke Kennard from the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Gabe Vincent and a second-round pick. This trade comes as part of the Lakers’ effort to enhance their three-point shooting capabilities, an area where they have struggled this season.
Lakers Acquire Three-Point Specialist Luke Kennard
Luke Kennard, currently signed for one year at $11 million, has proven to be a valuable asset for the Hawks. The Lakers previously ranked in the bottom half of the NBA in three-point shooting percentage. Kennard’s addition aims to address this weakness.
Player Performance and Statistics
In his most recent outing for the Hawks on February 3, Kennard scored 12 points, hitting 4 of 6 attempts from beyond the arc in just 23 minutes of play. This season, he has been averaging:
- 7.9 points per game
- 2.2 rebounds per game
- 2.1 assists per game
Kennard boasts an impressive shooting percentage of 53.8% from the field and an exceptional 49.7% from three-point range.
Career Highlights
Over the course of his nine-season NBA career, spanning four teams, Kennard has developed a career three-point shooting percentage of 44.2%. He averages 4.4 three-point attempts per game, making him a formidable threat from long range.
His skill set aligns well with the playing styles of prominent players like Luka Doncic and LeBron James. Both excel at penetrating defenses, allowing Kennard to capitalize by delivering open shots.
This trade reflects the Lakers’ strategic focus on enhancing their shooting, particularly as the playoff race intensifies. Fans are eager to see how Kennard will contribute to the team’s success in the coming games.
