Free agent profile: A.J. Price
Indiana Pacers point guard A.J. Price
Type of free agent: Unrestricted
Positives: His strong scoring instincts allow him to flourish on pick-and-rolls and in isolation sets. Considering the Lakers are in need of scoring off the bench, Price's addition would prove valuable. He's a year removed from having offseason knee surgery, so it's possible he'll vanish any concerns about his inconsistent 2010-2011 campaign, when he shot only 35% from the field.
Negatives: Price's low shooting percentage could also point to his overall inconsistency and trigger-happy tendencies. As Indy Cornrows' Nathan S. noted, the Pacers went 2-7 in games in which Price attempted at least 10 field goals. There are plenty of other weaknesses. He lacks enough speed and athleticism to effectively run the break and defend quick point guards, two necessities in Mike Brown's system. He also lacks passing instincts, a must considering the Lakers have talent who want the ball.
Verdict: Considering the Lakers' point guard role demands strong passing skills, the Lakers should pursue other options. Should Price be the only one available, however, it'd be better for the Lakers to pick him up than not addressing their need for another point guard at all.
