The Los Angeles Lakers have had a solid start to the 2024-25 season under head coach JJ Redick. However, their guard rotation remains a glaring weakness. Despite their 10-6 record and fourth-place standing in the Western Conference, the Lakers desperately need consistent scoring from the backcourt to contend for a championship. Bogdan Bogdanovic could be the solution the Lakers are searching for.
Bogdan Bogdanovic Elevates The Lakers Into Being True Contenders
The Lakers’ Guard Rotation Is a Problem
D’Angelo Russell has struggled to find his rhythm this season. He is averaging a career-low 11.2 points in just 26.9 minutes per game. His lack of production is especially troubling, given his expiring $18.69 million contract. For a team operating near the second apron, the Lakers cannot afford such inefficiency from a key roster spot.
Gabe Vincent has also been a non-factor. Despite an $11.0 million cap hit, he is averaging only 3.0 points in 17.6 minutes per game. This marks the least amount of playing time Vincent has received since 2020-21.
Jalen Hood-Schifino has failed to make any impact. The Lakers declined the team option on his rookie contract, signaling their lack of confidence in his future. With these struggles, the Lakers’ backcourt looks alarmingly shallow.
Austin Reaves has been a bright spot, but the team is dangerously reliant on him. A single injury to Reaves could send the Lakers spiraling. To stabilize their guard rotation and add much-needed scoring, the Lakers must consider trading for Bogdan Bogdanovic.
Bogdanovic’s Upside as a Scorer
Bogdanovic, nicknamed “Bogi Buckets,” has been one of the NBA’s most reliable shooters in recent years. Last season, he averaged 16.9 points per game while shooting 37.4% from three-point range. He ranked sixth in total threes made and ninth in made threes per game.
Although he has struggled early this season due to a right hamstring injury, Bogdanovic’s Olympic performance shows he still has plenty left in the tank. Representing Serbia in Paris, he shot 46.2% shooting from three on 6.5 attempts per game, helping his team secure a bronze medal.
Bogdanovic brings more than just shooting. He thrives as a secondary playmaker and excels in pick-and-roll situations. His ability to create his own shot would relieve pressure on LeBron James and Anthony Davis. In high-stakes playoff scenarios, Bogdanovic could be a valuable third scoring option for the Lakers.
Why Atlanta Might Trade Bogdanovic
The Atlanta Hawks have shown increasing commitment to developing their young talent. Players like Kobe Bufkin and Vit Krejci are waiting for more opportunities. Trading Bogdanovic would free up minutes for these prospects and allow Atlanta to focus on its future.
Additionally, Bogdanovic’s recent shooting slump has diminished his role. If he continues to struggle, the Hawks might look to move him before the trade deadline. By offering a package centered on expiring contracts and draft compensation, the Lakers could entice Atlanta to part ways with Bogdanovic.
How Bogdanovic Fits the Lakers’ Needs
Bogdanovic addresses multiple issues for the Lakers. He would provide much-needed scoring, particularly from beyond the arc. The Lakers have been shooting the three-ball well but not enough. His ability to space the floor would open up driving lanes for LeBron and Davis.
The Lakers also need someone who can create offense without relying on LeBron, Davis, or Reaves. Bogdanovic has proven capable of carrying the scoring load when needed. His presence would reduce the wear and tear on the Lakers’ aging stars over the long season.
Finally, Bogdanovic brings playoff experience and a competitive edge. He has excelled on international stages and performed well in critical NBA games. His skill set and mindset make him an ideal addition for a team aiming for a deep postseason run.
The Last Word
The Lakers cannot afford to ignore their backcourt struggles if they hope to compete for a championship. Bogdanovic offers an affordable and impactful solution. His scoring, playmaking, and experience would instantly elevate the Lakers’ guard rotation.
By trading for Bogdanovic, the Lakers would gain a reliable third option behind LeBron and Davis. With the trade deadline approaching, the Lakers must act quickly to secure the Serbian sharpshooter and strengthen their title chances.
