Clearly, Los Angeles Lakers will be happy after the first day of NBA free Agency. The front office took pretty good first steps. The fans have been worrying sick about many key players in free agency. The top two stars of the Lakers – LeBron James and Anthony Davis, have their contracts till next year. Hence, fans can relax about the duo staying for the next season as well. Although there have been rumors that James might retire soon as he gave a couple of cryptic messages hinting at retirement.
But sources close to James believe that he is not going anywhere for at least next season. LeBron James will push for his 5th championship ring for another year with the Lakers. Hence, fans can now shift their focus to the other key role players like Austin Reaves, D’Angelo Russell, and Rui Hachimura. However, it seems difficult to keep D’Angelo Russell on the team as he is an unrestricted free agent. On top of that, the Lakers have reportedly signed with Gabe Vincent from Miami Heat for a three-year contract worth $33 million.
Lakers Are Happy To Sign A Deal With Gabe Vincent; D’Lo’s Future Is Doubtful
Sadly, D’Angelo Russell disappointed the fans in the Western Conference Finals. And now, after the Lakers signed with Gabe Vincent on the first day of free agency, D’Lo’s place in the team is doubtful. And looks like the point guard will have to leave once again. However, in the regular season, D’Lo impressed the fans a lot. But the entry of Vincent can mean the end of Russell with the Purple & the Gold this offseason. However, the Lakers Faithful rejoice in the signing of Gabe Vincent from the Miami Heat for a three-year contract worth $33 million.
Vincent’s addition to the roster means the Lakers will have a stronger defense next season. Gabe is good at scoring clutch points as well. With Miami Heat, Gabe Vincent averaged 9.4 ppg and shot 33.4% three-pointers. But in the postseason, his average got better as he 12.7 ppg and shot 37.8% from deep. This improvement helped him get to Los Angeles. But eyes are on Miami Heat if they can pivot to get back their most important free agent. However, the luxury tax considerations are an obstacle for the Heat.
Is Cam Reddish Coming To LA Finally?
Moreover, the Lakers have reportedly signed Cam Reddish for two years. According to Brad Turner from the Los Angeles Times, Rich Paul, the CEO of Klutch Sports, and Agent Josh Hairston signed agreements for Cam Reddish to a multi-year contract to play for the Lakers. Moreover, Michael Scotto via Hoops Hype mentioned, “Lakers signed Cam Reddish for a two-year contract worth $4.63 million with a player option for his second season.”
On the other hand, it was almost certain that the Lakers were going to retain Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves. In his second NBA season, Reaves gained the status of the third most important player on the roster. He is too special for the 17-time champions to give up. Moreover, Rob Pelinka, Lakers General Manager, believes in the concept of keeping the core together. As a result, the midseason recruit, Rui Hachimura, who came from the Washington Wizards, will play for another three years with the Lakers. On the first day, the front office made sure Hachimura stayed in Los Angeles in the offseason.
