It wаs а surprise when Gаbe Vincent signed with the Lаkers аfter helping the Heаt get tо the NBа Finаls. It wаsn’t а rumоr, аnd it wаsn’t even reаlly а needy plаce.

That doesn’t meаn, though, that the deal didn’t make sense or have value. Vincent has won before and can play a lot of different spots and well next to stars.

D’Angelo Russell, his new partner, said after Saturday’s preseason game that he’s a smart player above all else. Vincent helped out four times and scored seven points in 20 minutes.

It was said that he had a very high IQ. “He works as a professional. Having someone like that on your team is very valuable. Because the league is so new, there are a lot of guys who are in between being a vet and having a lot of experience. He has a lot of experience after just finishing the season. He just works as a worker. I can play with a lot of different teams, but when I’m at my best, I like playing with another point guard next to me.

“I like to play the game at a high IQ level, and when you’re the only point guard and there’s no one else around, guys don’t get you the ball when you’re open. You backdoor cut, set a flare, and other things like that.”

The fact that Vincent can play different positions in the backcourt will make him even more useful for this Lakers team. Bryant, Russell, and Austin Reaves can all play both guard spots. D’Lo said that having more than one person who can handle the ball on the court makes the аttаck more interesting.

Dennis Schroder’s departure for Toronto was a big loss for the Lakers. Vincent is not a direct replacement. He does, however, bring knowledge, which is very important for a team that wants to win the title.

Vincent may not have the best resume based on statistics. But he could be very important to the Lakers this season and in their race for the title.