The Los Angeles Lakers are exploring options to reunite Luka Doncic with Dante Exum, his former Dallas Mavericks teammate, as part of their offseason plans. While the Lakers prioritize strengthening their frontcourt and wing depth, acquiring a veteran guard like Exum could add valuable experience and familiarity to the backcourt.
According to Lakers insider Anthony Irvin, Exum is an unrestricted free agent after the 2024-25 season and could provide immediate chemistry with Doncic, having shared multiple seasons on the Mavericks. Exum’s recent performance includes averages of 8.7 points, 2.8 assists, and 1.7 rebounds per game during his 20 appearances this past season, which was limited by injuries.
Exum’s shooting ability is notable, hitting 47.2% from beyond the arc over the previous two seasons. General Manager Rob Pelinka might view this skill set as a cost-effective way to bolster the Lakers’ guard rotation, especially if Exum can be signed at a veteran minimum salary.
If signed, Exum would likely serve as the third-string point guard behind Luka Doncic and Gabe Vincent. However, playing time may be limited because LeBron James and Austin Reaves often manage playmaking duties when Doncic is off the floor. Despite this, Exum’s familiarity with Doncic and his shooting prowess make him a potentially useful addition in a supporting role.
Potential Veteran Guard Additions: Dante Exum and De’Anthony Melton
NBA insider Jovan Buha has highlighted Dante Exum and De’Anthony Melton as possible veteran minimum signings for the Lakers to enhance their perimeter position. On a recent podcast, Buha pointed out that while Exum would fit well as a role player rather than a primary acquisition, Melton presents upside despite some concerns after recovering from an injury.
“Dante Exum, a former Rob Pelinka client. For Exum, I view him more as a fit guard. I would not want him as the primary addition. Melton, there’s some risk with him coming off an injury, but I think he’s an upside player for a veteran minimum contract who could outperform it.” —Jovan Buha, NBA analyst
Buha also mentioned that the Lakers might benefit from a player similar to Max Christie, a combo guard capable of contributing both defensively and with shooting. Either Exum or Melton, who fit this description, could step into such a role to support the team’s core lineup.
As the offseason continues, Rob Pelinka’s strategy may include more than just veteran minimum guard signings. Nevertheless, the names of Dante Exum and De’Anthony Melton currently top the list of potential guard additions linked to the Lakers’ roster moves.
Implications for the Lakers’ Roster Moving Forward
Reuniting Luka Doncic with Dante Exum in Los Angeles would rekindle a connection formed during their time with the Mavericks, potentially aiding on-court chemistry. While the Lakers’ main focus remains on enhancing their frontcourt and wing depth, veteran guards like Exum and Melton offer affordable solutions to strengthen the backcourt without heavy investment.
Adding such guards could provide crucial depth behind Doncic and Gabe Vincent, particularly in a season where managing minutes for stars like LeBron James and Austin Reaves is essential. The approach also aligns with the Lakers’ broader effort to balance their roster cost-effectively while maintaining competitiveness in the NBA landscape.
Ultimately, these signings could shape the Lakers’ guard rotation for the upcoming season and offer flexible options for the coaching staff as they look to complement their star players and adjust to the challenges of the 2024-25 NBA campaign.