Amid NBA Free Agency Rumors, 27YO All-Star Seals $37,000,000 Worth Deal With LeBron James’ Lakers

The NBA Free Agency has thrown so much news around that it is becoming difficult to keep up. With all the teams making big-time moves, the market is getting as busy as it gets. The foundation for next season is already being laid. Contract renewals, players declining options, teams declining options, rookie signings, extension discussions, and the maths related to salary cap; all have brought in a stream of noise. 

Of course, things are magnified whenever LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers are in the mix. They made a huge decision regarding one of their players who was a part of the Free Agency.

Lakers ink a major player

The storied franchise has rolled out another piece of news for the next season. They have convinced former All-Star D’Angelo Russell to sign a $37 million contract for two years. In the current market, the price looks like a bonus to the Lakers. When role players are landing and asking for contracts north of $20 million, the Russell deal helps them iron out some issues financially.

This is despite the Guard shooting around 31% from the deep in the Playoffs and underperforming in games repeatedly. Considering his talent and his ability to bounce back, he will help in forming a strong offensive attack and the deal looks worth it for the squad. It keeps the Lakers’ record book balanced after they did away with the contracts of Mo Bamba and Malik Beasley, saving more than $20 million. Giving Russell a player option for the second year works well for both parties too to explore if he can land an even bigger contract.

The Lakers have been actively making decisions. They have signed Jaxson Hayes and Cam Reddish on cheap deals. Then they made a bang by giving Rui Hachimura a $51 million contract that runs for three years. This comes as his reward after showing up big in the Playoffs.

Read more: Ex-Lakers Star Declines $13,000,000 Igniting LeBron James Reunion Rumors Days After Bradley Beal Turmoil

The Lakers have been aggressive in free agency

But in the most fascinating situation, they stunned the NBA world after offering Austin Reaves a max contract on the opening day of free agency. Will Reaves be back with the team that picked the undrafted player?

The team is also interested in having Malik Beasley back to build depth on shooting. This indicates the trust they have placed in athletes who helped them reach the West Finals last season.

Apart from that, they also added fascinating role players Gabe Vincent and Taurean Prince. Bringing Russell back indicates that the team places huge faith in the duo of Reaves and their returnee.

Will Reaves stay? Will Russell repay the faith? Do mention this in the comments below. 

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