5 potential landing spots for Lance Stephenson
Lance Stephenson figures to be among the more intriguing options on the free-agent market this summer, though his antics could scare off potential suitors. If teams can look past the ear-blowing and face-cupping, though, the 23-year-old could prove a valuable pick-up.
Here are some potential landing spots for Mr. "Born Ready."
Indiana Pacers
Stephenson's behavior may have served as a distraction during the Pacers’ playoff run, but neither he nor the team has ruled out the possibility of him returning.
Bringing Stephenson back at his desired price would put the Pacers extremely close to the cap but, as Brian Windhorst of ESPN.com notes, Indiana will not have enough cap space to sign a worthy replacement for Stephenson if he's lured elsewhere. Additionally, Pacers president Larry Bird, though critical of Stephenson's antics, has been one of his biggest supporters since drafting him 40th overall in 2010.
Dallas Mavericks
Despite committing $54 million to Jose Calderon and Monta Ellis last year, the Mavericks are reportedly interested in making a big splash this summer. Stephenson is believed to be seeking a deal in the four-year, $40-million range, and the Mavs have ample cap space to make such a move. But would they?
If Dallas is willing to put aside its concerns about Stephenson's behavior, and is comfortable making Ellis a sixth man, it could be an investment worth making.
Chicago Bulls
The Bulls are believed to be targeting Carmelo Anthony, and while they can afford to make a run at him, there will be plenty of competition if he hits the open market.
In order to sign someone like Anthony or Kevin Love (another player reportedly of interest to the Bulls), Chicago would presumably have to move Carlos Boozer, Taj Gibson, or Mike Dunleavy Jr. Reports suggest the Bulls are not too keen on the idea, which makes it more likely the team will go after a second-tier player like Stephenson or Luol Deng.
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers are in rebuilding mode, and could use a young guard like Stephenson. With up to $28.2 million in cap space (provided they use the stretch provision on Steve Nash), they could easily afford him, too.
According to Jabari Davis of Basketball Insiders, the Lakers are determined to settle their point guard issue this offseason and would make a run at Eric Bledsoe, Kyle Lowry, or Stephenson for the right price.
What makes Stephenson a gamble, though, is the question of whether he would mesh with Lakers star Kobe Bryant. It's unlikely Bryant would put up with Stephenson's antics, and if the two clash, there could be problems. Then again, having someone like Bryant to keep him in line may be a good thing for Stephenson.
Charlotte Hornets
The new-look Hornets made major strides this season, advancing to the playoffs for just the second time in franchise history. With nearly $20 million in potential cap space to play with, Charlotte is expected to make a run at a number of free agents, including Zach Randolph, Pau Gasol, Arron Afflalo, and Jameer Nelson.
Whether Stephenson factors into that group remains to be seen (Charlotte was reportedly eyeing him back in February), but just think of what his addition would do for the Hornets already-improving season-ticket sales.