Just prior to the 2020-21 season, the Los Angeles Lakers traded veteran wing Danny Green and the rights to first-round draft pick Jaden McDaniels for guard Dennis Schroder. Schroder was coming off an excellent season with the Oklahoma City Thunder, and it was expected he would help reduce LeBron James’ workload.
Schroder played relatively well that year, but he left a bad taste in people’s mouths by publicly demanding a huge contract extension of at least $100 million.
The Lakers let him go in the summer of 2021, but last summer, they brought him back on a veteran’s minimum contract. This time around, the German native made a decent impression, so much so that fans wouldn’t exactly mind if he’s back with the team next season.
Schroder's regular season stats
12.6 points
4.5 assists
2.5 rebounds
0.8 steals
41.5 percent field-goal shooting
32.9 percent 3-point shooting
85.7 percent free throw shooting
Schroder's playoff stats
7.4 points
2.9 assists
1.9 rebounds
1.0 steals
39.8 percent field-goal shooting
33.3 percent 3-point shooting
82.1 percent free throw shooting
Takeaways
After missing the first few weeks of the season with a thumb injury, Schroder was a regular starter for head coach Darvin Ham. Once the team traded for D’Angelo Russell, Schroder was in and out of the starting lineup, but to his credit, he didn’t complain.
Compared to past seasons, he saw a decline in his production, especially in terms of offensive efficiency. But his greatest assets to the Lakers have been his defensive pressure and his overall tenacity and toughness.
Retaining Schroder may be out of the question, as he may demand more than the veteran’s minimum. But he would be a nice backup point guard for the team if they’re able to come to terms with him on a new contract.
Overall grade: B-minus
