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Los Angeles Lakers: Will injury to Larry Nance Jr. open door for Luol Deng?

By Mark Wilson

MIAMI, FL - DECEMBER 22: Luol Deng #9 of the Los Angeles Lakers passes around Josh McRoberts #4 of the Miami Heat during a game at American Airlines Arena on December 22, 2016 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FL - DECEMBER 22: Luol Deng #9 of the Los Angeles Lakers passes around Josh McRoberts #4 of the Miami Heat during a game at American Airlines Arena on December 22, 2016 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /
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The injury to Larry Nance Jr. could be a blessing in disguise for the Los Angeles Lakers and seldom used Luol Deng

The Los Angeles Lakers are blessed with young talent at every position. Few teams can say they can go two-deep at each, but the Lakers’ hand may have been forced to test that theory. While playing Luol Deng may not be the best choice considering his struggles since coming to L.A., it will provide clarity moving forward.

Let me explain.

The Lakers, looking to make solid rosters moves by adding veteran leadership, signed Deng to a four- year, $72 million deal in the summer of 2016. The problem is Deng has yet to produce. Last season, Deng averaged eight points and five rebounds on 39 percent shooting while playing in 56 games.

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Oh, how times have changed for the versatile player from Duke University.

The Lakers figured Deng could mentor Brandon Ingram, but never expected Deng to completely fall off the radar. Ingram is the new stud while the Lakers are paying Deng $17 million this season to watch from the bench.

Here’s the silver lining if the Los Angles Lakers care to look at it this way

With the Injury to Larry Nance Jr., the Lakers could turn to Deng. Julius Randle has regressed this season and to make matters worse, he’s losing out to Kyle Kuzma for minutes at the power forward position. With Ingram firmly planted at small forward, this could give Deng a chance to provide help behind Kuzma if the Lakers actually decide to trade Randle.

Deng could still offer assistance to Ingram and slide over to the PF position. His final season with the Miami Heat is the reason why the Lakers took the risk with Deng. Deng could be the ultimate stretch 4 for the Lakers in a limited role. His ability to penetrate and hit the outside shot will offer a change of pace for a lineup desperately in need of one.

Let’s say Deng does indeed get a bit more playing time. What this does for the Lakers is put Deng’s talents on display for the trade deadline. If Deng can put up serviceable numbers of at least, eight points and five rebounds, the Lakers could offer his services along with Randle in a package deal.

Must Read: NBA: 5 Trades We'd Like To See Before The Trade Deadline

This is what Luke Walton must think going forward. Nevermind trying to stroke the ego of Kuzma or Ingram. This is about getting rid of Deng’s contract before the year is up. The Los Angeles Lakers are young and Deng’s contract is the anchor that’s holding them back. Get rid of Luol Deng’s contract to provide a stable foundation for the future.

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