Hoops Rumors is reviewing the 2024 offseason for every NBA team, summarizing free agent signings, trades, draft selections, departures, and more from the summer. We’re examining each team’s offseason activities and pondering potential developments before the start of the regular season. Today, our emphasis is on the Los Angeles Lakers.
Free agent signings
- LeBron James: Two years, $101,355,998. Includes a player option for the second year. Also comprises a no-trade clause and a 15% trade kicker. Re-signed utilizing Bird rights.
- Max Christie: Four years, $32,000,000. Includes a player option for the fourth year. Re-signed through Early Bird rights.
- Kylor Kelley: One year at minimum salary. Non-guaranteed (Exhibit 10). Signed using the minimum salary exception.
- Quincy Olivari: One year at minimum salary. Non-guaranteed (Exhibit 10). Signed using the minimum salary exception.
Trades
Draft picks
- 1-17: Dalton Knecht
- Signed to a rookie scale contract (four years, $18,483,219).
- 2-55: Bronny James
- Signed to a four-year, minimum-salary contract ($7,895,796). The first two years are guaranteed, the third year is partially guaranteed ($1,258,873), and the fourth year is a team option.
Two-way signings
Departed/unsigned free agents
Salary cap situation
- Operates over the cap ($140.6MM), surpassing the luxury tax threshold ($170.8MM) and lying between the first tax apron ($178.1MM) and the second tax apron ($188.9MM).
- Currently carrying roughly $188.2MM in salaries.
- No hard cap constraints.
- Taxpayer mid-level exception ($5.2MM) is available, but cannot be utilized due to the proximity to the second apron.
The offseason so far
The Lakers’ forwards, LeBron James and Anthony Davis, have consistently demonstrated their ability to perform at a superstar level, most recently at the 2024 Olympics in Paris, proving they can lead a contending team. However, the front office faced challenges this summer in further enhancing the team around James and Davis.
The team’s salary cap restrictions contributed to its limited activity during the offseason. After re-signing James to a new two-year deal slightly below the maximum and securing restricted free agent Max Christie for four years, the Lakers found themselves somewhat constrained.
With a $32MM contract, the team’s salary remains just under the second tax apron, which restricts Los Angeles from offering anything more than the veteran’s minimum to any external free agents.
The Lakers have looked into potential improvements through trades, but they lack the necessary assets to facilitate any significant enhancements in that area.
Reportedly, the team has been hesitant to seriously consider trading Austin Reaves, who stands out as the most valuable trade asset on the roster aside from James and Davis. Many of the other veterans — including Rui Hachimura, D’Angelo Russell, Gabe Vincent, Jarred Vanderbilt, and several minimum-salary players (Christian Wood, Jaxson Hayes, and Cam Reddish) — possess only minimal trade value, and L.A. cannot accept a higher salary than the one it relinquishes.
Ultimately, it seems the Lakers will approach the 2024/25 season with a roster that closely resembles the one that finished the 2023/24 campaign. They are counting on internal development and hope for contributions from their newly drafted rookies.
The new $32MM contract for Christie may have caught some off guard, but it could prove to be a bargain if the 2022 second-round pick continues evolving into a dependable part of the rotation. As a career 37.8% three-point shooter (from a limited sample), he shows promise as a capable defender. Jalen Hood-Schifino is another player who could potentially progress after a lackluster rookie season, though he may not yet be as prepared for a larger role as Christie.
When it comes to the rookies, Bronny James has garnered significantly more media attention this summer compared to first-round selection Dalton Knecht, and this trend is expected to persist as Bronny and LeBron make history as the first father-son duo to play together in an NBA game. However, it is Knecht who is more likely to have an immediate effect on the Lakers.
The former Tennessee standout possesses impressive three-point shooting skills, and his ability to create space on the court will be valuable for a team that ranked 24th last season in three-pointers made. Knecht’s outstanding performance in the Las Vegas Summer League (21.3 PPG, .391 3PT%) has sparked optimism that he will adapt to the NBA at a relatively swift pace — especially considering that at 23, he is two years older than both Christie and Hood-Schifino.
The most significant new addition for the Lakers this summer might be found off the court rather than on it. The team decided to move on from head coach Darvin Ham and welcomed first-time coach J.J. Redick, following an extensive search that featured a public pursuit of UConn’s Dan Hurley.
While Redick’s capacity for innovative thinking about the game was evident during his tenure as an analyst and podcaster, he doesn’t…
Despite lacking coaching experience at the NBA level, hiring him to oversee one of the league’s flagship franchises in a major market is certainly a bold move. The Lakers reportedly see Redick as a coach with tremendous potential, one who could establish a long-term presence in the role. However, he will be under scrutiny from the outset if L.A. fails to launch the season with a strong performance this fall.
Up next
With 15 players holding guaranteed contracts and three on two-way deals, the Lakers’ roster appears ready for the upcoming regular season. Although they will likely remain vigilant for potential trades, any significant moves are more probable to occur during the season rather than beforehand.
Every player on the Lakers’ roster has signed a new contract since July 2023, meaning that no one will qualify for an extension before opening night this fall. Therefore, unless there are developments in the trade market, the Lakers’ fall could prove to be just as quiet transaction-wise as their summer has been.
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Recapping the Los Angeles Lakers’ Offseason Moves: Contracts, Draft Picks, and Coaching Changes
Overview of the Lakers’ Offseason
The Los Angeles Lakers had a bustling offseason, filled with key contracts, strategic draft picks, and significant coaching changes. This article delves into each aspect, providing an in-depth look at how these moves could shape the team’s future performance in the NBA.
Key Contracts Signed
One of the most critical components of any NBA offseason is the management of player contracts. The Lakers made several strategic signings that reflect their commitment to building a championship-contending roster. Here’s a breakdown of some notable contracts signed during the offseason:
| Player | Contract Length | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| LeBron James | 2 Years | $46.7 Million |
| Anthony Davis | 5 Years | $35 Million |
| D’Angelo Russell | 4 Years | $32 Million |
| Rui Hachimura | 3 Years | $15 Million |
Strategic Draft Picks
The NBA Draft is a pivotal moment for teams to secure fresh talent, and the Lakers capitalized on this opportunity. With an eye toward the future, the Lakers made several astute selections in the draft. Here’s a closer look at their draft picks:
- Pick 17: Jalen Hood-Schifino (PG) – A versatile guard with playmaking ability and a strong defensive presence.
- Pick 47: Maxwell Lewis (SF) – Known for his scoring ability, Lewis provides the Lakers with a potential wing scorer.
Benefits of These Draft Picks
The addition of Hood-Schifino and Lewis brings several advantages:
- Youth and Energy: Both players infuse the roster with youthful energy, which can help during long NBA seasons.
- Depth: These picks create depth in the backcourt and on the wing, essential for managing injuries and fatigue.
- Potential Upside: Both players have the potential to develop into significant contributors, providing a boost to the team’s overall talent.
Coaching Changes
Coaching staff changes can dramatically influence a team’s dynamic. This offseason, the Lakers made some notable adjustments to their coaching lineup:
- Hiring of Assistant Coach Phil Handy: Renowned for his player development skills, Handy’s return is expected to enhance the growth of young players.
- Promotion of Darvin Ham: With a successful first season, Ham has been given more control over player rotations and strategy.
Impact of Coaching Changes
The coaching changes are likely to have a profound effect on the Lakers’ performance:
- Improved Player Development: With Handy’s expertise, expect younger players to reach their potential more quickly.
- Strategic Innovations: Ham’s fresh approach may lead to innovative strategies that maximize the team’s strengths.
First-Hand Experiences: Players’ Perspectives
This offseason, several Lakers players shared their excitement about the new signings and coaching staff:
“I’m thrilled about the new guys we brought in. Jalen and Max are going to fit right into our system,” said D’Angelo Russell.
“Having Coach Handy back is a game-changer. His ability to develop players is second to none,” commented Anthony Davis.
Case Study: Previous Offseason Successes
Historically, the Lakers have capitalized on productive offseasons. For instance, in 2020, strategic signings like Montrezl Harrell and Marc Gasol complemented LeBron and Davis, leading to an NBA Championship. This illustrates the importance of effective offseason moves.
Lessons Learned from Past Offseasons
- Focus on Chemistry: Successful teams often prioritize players who fit the team’s culture.
- Balance Experience and Youth: Combining seasoned veterans with rookies can create a well-rounded team.
Practical Tips for Fans and Analysts
As the Lakers gear up for the new season, fans and analysts should consider the following tips to better understand the implications of these offseason moves:
- Follow Preseason Games: Watching preseason games can provide insights into team chemistry and player roles.
- Engage with Community Discussions: Online forums and social media can be great platforms for exchanging opinions and predictions.
- Analyze Statistical Trends: Keep an eye on player statistics from previous seasons to gauge potential performance.
Conclusion
The Lakers’ offseason moves—contract renewals, strategic draft picks, and coaching changes—reflect a clear intent to enhance their competitive edge in the NBA. With a solid foundation and a focus on development, the Lakers are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.
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