Scouting Report: Could Lonnie Walker IV Break Out Next Season?

So, yeah. Here's the deal. Very, very few Lakers fans were excited when the Lakers announced, only a few hours into free agency. an agreement with former San Antonio Spurs guard/forward Lonnie Walker IV. One year, full taxpayer midlevel exception. The Spurs, well known for their talent development chops, decided Walker wasn't worth bringing back, even though he's a recent first round pick, and is only 23. His three-point shooting has tailed off as his volume rises, and Walker is, charitably... not a good defensive player. On the other hand, he's an athletic freak, and as shown the ability to attack the rim. If the Lakers run the way Darvin Ham seems to want, Walker could have some utility. But did they rush too fast to sign Walker? How might Walker respond to a different coaching staff? To having a guy like LeBron on the squad? This was, at least by dollar amount, the big free agent signing of the offseason for the Lakers. Is it as big a misfire as some believe? Meanwhile, the Spurs have been connected to the Lakers and Kyrie Irving, as a potential third team to absorb Russell Westbrook's contract. Is that really a viable option? Would they really do that, and is there a version of this trade where San Antonio benefits enough to make it happen? Breaking it all down is Jeff Garcia, host of the Locked On Spurs podcast. HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky, with guest Jeff Garcia SEGMENT 1: Why didn't it work for Walker in San Antonio? What are his weaknesses? SEGMENT 2: What does Walker do well and could that translate to success in LA? SEGMENT 3: Could San Antonio really get involved in a Kyrie deal? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Built Bar Built Bar is a protein bar that tastes like a candy bar. Go to builtbar.com and use promo code “LOCKED15,” and you’ll get 15% off your next order. BetOnline BetOnline.net has you covered this season with more props, odds and lines than ever before. BetOnline – Where The Game Starts! Rock Auto Amazing selection. Reliably low prices. All the parts your car will ever need. Visit RockAuto.com and tell them Locked On sent you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices