The New York Knicks are considered the more realistic landing spot for veteran guard Bruce Brown, potentially complicating the Los Angeles Lakers' efforts to acquire him. This development follows the Lakers' unsuccessful pursuit of Jonathan Kuminga, who reportedly chose a two-year deal with Minnesota.
NBA insider Brett Siegel expressed skepticism about the Lakers' chances of signing Brown, suggesting the Knicks present a more viable option. "I would cast doubt on the Lakers. Could they make it happen? Maybe. But I would look at the Knicks as a realistic option," Siegel said on "Clutch Scoops." Brown could fill a role for the Knicks similar to Josh Hart's, contributing on defense, rebounding, and playmaking while adapting to team needs.
Brown, 30, brings championship experience from the Denver Nuggets' 2023 title team. Last season, he played all 82 games, averaging 7.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists while shooting 47.5%. His versatility includes defending multiple positions, ball-handling, and fitting into a secondary offensive role. He previously revealed that he nearly signed with the Lakers in 2023 before the Indiana Pacers offered him a two-year, $40 million contract.
While Brown could be an acquisition that fits financially for the Lakers without requiring a major roster overhaul, their focus has also been on other defensive-minded additions. The team has already added players like Walker Kessler, Kevon Looney, Matisse Thybulle, and Ziaire Williams, aiming to improve roster balance and defense. However, questions persist regarding their frontcourt depth and forward size. The Lakers have also been linked to other minimum-salary options such as Dwight Powell, Drew Eubanks, Bismack Biyombo, and Mason Plumlee.
More ambitious targets for the Lakers on the wing include players like OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges, though acquiring them would likely necessitate significant trades. The potential interest in Brown is partly due to his accessibility without a blockbuster deal, offering the Lakers a proven defender and secondary ball-handler. However, securing his services may depend on convincing him to forgo a potential championship contender in New York.