Should the Los Angeles Lakers Sign Michael Beasley?

Now that the Phoenix Suns have waived Michael Beasley due to his recent off-court issues, the former 2nd overall pick is looking for a new home.

The Los Angeles Lakers have expressed interest in Beasley during the 2012 NBA trade deadline, and
now they finally have the chance to sign him.

With the recent additions of forward Shawne Williams and shooting guard Xavier Henry, the Lakers' roster is composed of 14 players. L.A. could certainly use another combo forward to finalize their roster.

However, while they can only offer Beasley a veterans minimum contract, the 24-year-old agreed to a $7 million dollar buyout with the Suns, so money shouldn't be an issue for him.

The Lakers can entice Beasley with Mike D'Antoni's open-court offense, which should be a nice fit for him. With Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash and Pau Gasol's leadership, the 6-foot-10 forward will have the chance to mature as a player on and off the court.    

Therefore, the storied franchise should do everything in their power to convince Beasley to come to L.A.

While the former Kansas State product may have some off-court problems, it shouldn't deny his immense talent and potential.

Beasley has already proven that he's a versatile scorer and he hasn't even reached his ceiling yet. He holds career averages of 14.1 points and 5.2 rebounds.

Furthermore, while the Lakers may not be the best situation for Beasley financial wise, he can earn a larger contract next season when the team has a lot of cap space. The former Sun's player has the chance to be apart of a championship city in Los Angeles as long as he continues to develop his game and stays out of trouble.  

The combo forward had his best season in the NBA while playing for the Minnesota Timberwolves under L.A.'s assistant coach, Kurt Rambis. He averaged 19.2 and 5.6 rebounds while shooting 45 percent from the field. Rambis gives Beasley a familiar face to help him grow.

Given the recent success the Lakers has had with youngsters that couldn't fulfill their potential (Jordan Hill, Trevor Ariza, Earl Clark), the franchise certainly hopes to turn Beasley's career around if he signs with L.A.      

Your man cave is your home field advantage for every game. When the game is on the line, you should be able to look around and be reminded of the great moments you've watched unfold in that very room! MJR Sports Integrity offers a wide range or team and player-specific memorabilia that can do just that and take your game day room to the next level. Find your inspiration at MJR Sports Integrity and will your team to victory!

Be sure to check out other great articles at Sports Media 101.