Potential free agent replacements for Dion Waiters
By Simon Smith
Nick Young, Los Angeles Lakers
Amidst another disastrous Lakers season, Nick Young was a surprising bright spot. After averaging just 19.1 minutes and 7.3 points per game on 33.9 percent shooting from the field in 2015-16, Young had somewhat of a resurgence this season. Starting in all 60 games played, Young posted 13.2 points in 25.9 minutes per game. He shot 43.0 percent from the field and an excellent 40.4 percent from behind three on 7.0 attempts per game. This ranked Young 12th in the league for three-point attempts per game, while having the fourth best percentage of players averaging at least 7.0 attempts per game.
Considering the Lakers’ lack of success, Young’s three-point shooting numbers were tremendous. Per NBA.com, for attempts taken at least four feet from the closest opponent, Young converted at a 42.6 percent clip. This season, the Heat ranked seventh in three-point attempts considered open (4-6 feet from the closest opponent. However, they converted at a 34.1 percent clip, which ranked them 22nd for such shots.
Young’s accuracy, combined with a low usage rate of 19.5, make him a great option off the ball option. And at 6-foot-7, Young provides the flexibility to switch between the 2 and 3 spots.
His best performance this season came against the defending champion Cavaliers. In 38 minutes, Young scored a season-high 32 points, which included an outstanding 8-of-14 from three-point range.
But it wasn’t just Young’s shooting ability that led to his resurgence this season. From the outset of the preseason, Young’s newly found desire at the defensive end was very evident. During the preseason, Lakers’ head coach Luke Walton forecast a promising outlook for Young this season:
"“He’s earned playing time. He’s been phenomenal throughout training camp and preseason games. I think we all know he’ll score the ball, but the thing that I’ve said has been most impressive is the way he’s been defending people.”"
Despite turning 32 next month, Young has a relatively low amount of miles on his legs. He has missed 194 total games over his 10 seasons in the league, albeit without suffering any long-term, major injuries. On a short-term deal, Young could provide terrific value for a playoff-bound team such as the Heat.