According to ESPN's Marc Stein (via Twitter), the Lakers have shown interest in Leandro Barbosa:
Game of the day now: Brazil v Russia. Hearing out of Brazil camp that they believe Lakers have interest in free-agent Leandro Barbosa
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) August 2, 2012 Barbosa spent time with the Toronto Raptors last season before being traded to the Indiana Pacers who thought he could be a vital piece to a playoff run.
Things didn't work out for the Pacers, as they lost to the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, but the Barbosa experiment wasn't a total bust.
The Brazilian shooting guard averaged 9.8 points in just under 20 minutes per game coming off the bench behind Paul George. If nothing else, he proved that he can be a viable backup in spurts.
Los Angeles went through most of the 2011-12 season without a solid backup for Bryant. Of course, it remains to be seen whether he actually needs a backup, as "The Ageless Wonder" continues to play at a high level despite, you know...getting old.
While Bryant is still one of the top shooting guards in the league, and will likely remain as such until he chooses to retire, there's no denying that he's going to need some extra time on the bench next season.
Whether it be five or 10 extra minutes riding the pine, the Lakers are going to need a guy who can come in and not make a fool of himself while Bryant is on the bench.
If the Lakers capitalize on their interest, Barbosa could be that guy.
As a nine-year veteran, Barbosa isn't going to be biting at Mike Brown's ankles for increased playing time. If he decides to sign on with the Lakers, he knows who he's going to be playing second fiddle to.
Not only that, but Barbosa has played 75 postseason games in his career...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
