Miami Heat guard Kyle Lowry (7) Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

Evan Turner warns Kyle Lowry of becoming latest Lakers 'fall guy'

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 1/28/24

The Los Angeles Lakers reportedly hold interest in Kyle Lowry should the Charlotte Hornets buy out his contract. Former NBA forward Evan Turner believes the championship-winning guard should avoid the draw of playing for the Purple and Gold.

In a recent post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Turner shared a message with Lowry. He noted how a move to the LeBron James-led team could tarnish his legacy and that he would become the "fall guy" for the franchise.

"Kyle, Do not go to the Lakers, they are trying to make you the fall guy. Think about your legacy," Turner wrote.

Kyle,

Do not go to the Lakers, they are trying to make you the fall guy. Think about your legacy
— Evan Turner (@thekidet) January 27, 2024

Turner's comments are likely based on what happened to Russell Westbrook during his tenure with the Lakers. The veteran guard struggled to find success alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. He became a target for the fanbase.

Lowry, 37, is past his prime. He doesn't have the same explosive first step. He isn't the elite perimeter defender he once was. And he is likely suited to a minutes-controlled role off the bench.

The Lakers need guard help, though. They could thrust Lowry into the starting lineup to see how he meshes with LeBron and Davis. Given the pace the Lakers play at and the limited touches Lowry would get, he would likely struggle.

Lowry will likely field multiple offers if he hits the buyout market. Even at his current age, he will provide value to a contending team in a bench role. However, given the Lakers' recent struggles to find a guard that suits playing with LeBron and Davis, he would likely be better suited looking elsewhere.

After all, he's in the final stage of his career; the weight of a franchise's potential success shouldn't be placed on his shoulders.

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