Lakers: The expiring deals that have the best chance of getting re-signed
By Jason Reed
1. Julius Randle
At the beginning of the season, Julius Randle’s long-term future with the Los Angeles Lakers looked bleak. Whether he was a rumored trade target to free up Luol Deng‘s salary or demoted to the bench, Randle was not checking any boxes of re-signing with LA.
The two sides even failed to agree on a contract extension early in the season. As a restricted free agent, the Lakers would have to match any deal sent Randle’s way, that he accepts, to keep him. With the potential “two superstars” plan that has been beaten into the ground, Randle simply did not make sense financially.
Now he does. Randle can be that second superstar.
More from LA Sports Hub
- Lakers: 5 Players to Target Through Trades to make another championship run
- LA Chargers: Week 8 against Denver Broncos is a must-win
- LA Rams: Jared Goff wants to keep the Los Angeles title streak going
- Lakers Rumors: Los Angeles Clippers interested in Rajon Rondo
- LA Chargers: Justin Herbert wins AFC Rookie of the Month
Since seeing an increased role at both the four and the five, Randle has excelled. Since the All-Star Break, Randle is averaging 21.5 points, 10.2 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game. Not only is Randle putting up all-star numbers, he is physically bullying the opposition. He looks like a star. How else would he be thriving at center at only six-foot-nine?
Now, the Lakers are essentially forced to re-sign Randle. The fan base would likely be outraged if the team lets Randle walk. It would really make no sense to let him walk with a hole opening in the frontcourt this off-season.
Plus, the Lakers may be able to get a bit of a hometown discount with Randle and sign him to less than he is worth. The best sixth-man in the game, Lou Williams, netted a three-year, $24 million extension with the Clippers. Three years ago, Williams would be worth $60 million over three years. The NBA financial status is ever-changing.
A four-year, $50 million contract may be enough to convince Randle to stay. Add in some incentive bonuses (such as all-star appearances) and a late player option and Randle would be getting his fair share.
Next: Laker fans among the most loyal in the NBA
That leaves the Lakers with more than enough to bring in a star like Paul George. Heck, if the team extends Luol Deng’s contract to thin out the cap hit, LA could still afford a second star as well.
Chance of re-signing: 90%