Free agent profile: Carlos Delfino

This is the 17th post in a series focusing on this year’s free-agent class.

Player: Carlos Delfino

Type of free agent: Unrestricted

Positives: Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak suggested after Antawn Jamison’s introductory news conference Wednesday that he’s looking to add a backcourt player. Delfino would fit that need, plus give the Lakers another wing presence. His 6-foot-6, 230-pound frame enables him to do both. Delfino provides considerable scoring punch, averaging nearly double-digit points in the past four seasons both in attacking the rim (50%) and shooting from within 10 to 15 feet (50%).

Delfino provides more than secondary scoring in relief of Kobe Bryant. He would also fit in with Mike Brown’s defensive philosophies. Delfino has already played under defensive-minded coaches in Milwaukee (Scott Skiles) and Detroit (Larry Brown). He would have a minimal transition to Brown’s defensive principles and provide a defensive upgrade in the Lakers’ backcourt. His 1.3 steals-per-game average in the past three seasons suggests he’s well versed in reading the passing lanes and rotating properly.

Delfino should also enter training camp in good shape. He’s playing in the 2012 London Olympics for Argentina.

Negatives: Delfino has shown bouts of inconsistency in his play and his health. He was inefficient with his shots in isolation (38.3%) and spot ups (38.3%), according to Synergy Sports Technology. Delfino has averaged a career 36.2% from three-point range, which would exacerbate one of the Lakers’ biggest weaknesses. And he has played a full 82-game season only twice in his seven-year career. Considering he underwent surgery this off-season to repair a hernia, it’s possible something else could crop up next season.

Verdict: It’s safe to cross off the Bucks as a possible destination spot. Delfino recently vented to Hoopsworld that his former team hasn’t even reached out to him. So perhaps the Lakers could benefit in that Delfino hasn’t attracted much interest. Still, Delfino is coming off a three-year deal worth $10.5 million. The Lakers’ interest in him should hinge on whether he’s willing to take the veteran’s minimum ($1.4 million).

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