Grades for the year (relative to salary and expectations):
LeBron = A...The old man took some time to ramp up to start the season, then carried the Lakers when AD went down. Gutted through the foot injury, had to pick his spots in the playoffs.
AD = A-...Had two awesome runs during the regular season between his injury, then was the best defensive player in the playoffs. A little too up and down on offense in the playoffs.
Reaves = A...Improved his body and jumper last summer and carried his strong rookie play into this season. Looks like a foundational piece for the future with a big payday in July.
Rui = B...A wonky fit when he first got traded, but improved a lot in working with Phil Handy. Should get a big payday after a strong playoff showing. Hope he continues playing hard.
D'Lo = B-...Solid guard play once he got returned, but was too up and down during the playoffs and ended with a thud vs the Nuggets. I think he'll be back on a short-term contract.
Schroder = B+...Had many gripes with him, but he played hard and provided great value for the Lakers on a minimum contract. Already expecting him to return for the TMLE next season.
Vando = B...Brought great energy and defense to the team, but needs to improve the offense. Should be working on corner threes, catching the ball cleanly and finishing over the summer.
Lonnie = B+...Hated the signing, but was good to start the season, then got hurt and fell out of the rotation. Helped win game four vs the Warriors so very appreciative of that, but I think he's leaving.
TBJ = B...Provided solid two way play at forward on a minimum contract. I think he showed enough to get a slide of the TMLE from another team, but wouldn't mind having him back next season.
Beasley = C...Had like three hot shooting games, but was otherwise ineffective in his stint. Has a team option for next season that I could see being declined or traded elsewhere.
Wenyen = B...A favorite of mine, probably a tad over his head as a nightly backup but he provided great energy and hustle nonetheless. Would love to have him back next season as the fourth/fifth big.
Bamba = INC...Was not a fan of what I saw before he went down with injury, but his size and shooting (particuarly above the break/top of key) is appealing. Could see him back next season.
Christie = INC...Showed glimpses in his brief appearances this season as a big guard that can shoot threes, defend and rebound. There should be minutes for him next season provided he improves.
Ham = B+....Had my gripes with him during the regular season, but provided stability and toughness in the locker room. Adjusted fairly well in the playoffs game to game which was impressive.