Ironically, there's a proven veteran still in the free agent pool that would be a perfect role player for new head coach Mike D'Antoni's system.
Combining a fiery personality with a sharpshooter pedigree and an ability to play tough defense, he would be a great fit for the new-look Lakers.
His name is Mickael Pietrus.
Yet, it appears the Lakers have no interest in signing the rugged forward.
According to Max Luckan of CBS, the Lakers are going to either stand pat or go in a different direction.
Source: Lakers are not interested in Mickael Pietrus at this time.
— Max Luckan (@MaxLuckan) November 17, 2012 Of course, this could be an obvious commitment to the current 15-man roster. LA would have to cut or trade one of its current players to make a bid for Pietrus, and even then it would cost them a pretty penny more than they're already spending.
However, there is an obvious need for an upgrade, and with D'Antoni on board, he could benefit from a player with experience in systems like Golden State and Phoenix.
There's been plenty of interest league-wide.
The Indiana Pacers are said to have contacted Pietrus, as well as the Minnesota Timberwolves and Toronto Raptors. All three clubs reached out, but no agreement was made.
That leaves him as the best remaining free agent at his position.
The trio of Metta World Peace, Devin Ebanks and Jodie Meeks has been far from impressive during the team's slide to start the season.
World Peace is almost exclusively shooting three-pointers, while the latter duo can't get anything going from the field—neither is shooting above 23 percent from outside.
Pietrus is a career 35 percent thr...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
