Lakers News: Free Agency Decisions Loom for Four LA Players
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The Los Angeles Lakers may see significant changes next season as four key players face decisions on their contract options by Saturday.
LeBron James, with a $51.4 million player option, is the primary focus. Alongside him, starting point guard D'Angelo Russell, reserve power forward Cam Reddish, and center Jaxson Hayes also have crucial choices to make.
Russell's $18.7 million player option could see him staying put, given the current market conditions. Meanwhile, Reddish and Hayes, both on $2.5 million veteran minimum deals, signed one-year contracts with an option for a second year in 2023.
Reddish showed some defensive promise, earning a starting spot early in the season. However, his offensive output was limited, averaging 5.4 points with shooting percentages of .389/.336/.759, along with 2.1 rebounds, one assist, and one steal per game.
Hayes, despite being in the league for five seasons, remains a raw talent. He averaged 4.3 points and three rebounds over 70 games, including five starts, playing 12.5 minutes per game.
The Lakers' draft selection of Bronny James, LeBron's son, with the 55th pick in the second round, hints at a strategy to keep LeBron in Los Angeles, even if he opts out of his contract.
The decisions made by these players will shape the Lakers' roster and impact their performance in the upcoming season.