With superstars like LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and now Luka Doncic calling the Los Angeles Lakers their home within the NBA, the front office has seen plenty of faces come and go in recent years as they search for the best fit around their franchise centerpieces.
One of the former first-round picks who was part of the Lakers' playoff team from the 2022-23 season was able to rejuvenate his career during his time in Los Angeles. Now, he is joining one of the best teams in the world, outside of the NBA, as he has passed up the pursuit of another NBA deal to join a Euroleague power.
Former Lakers SG Walker IV Returning to Europe Failing to Stick in NBA
Former Lakers shooting guard Lonnie Walker IV is joining Maccabi Tel Aviv, according to longtime NBA insider Marc Stein, where he will become one of the highest-paid players in all of Europe. Early reports indicate the total value of his multi-year deal is $10 million.
Lonnie Walker IV is signing with @EuroLeague power Maccabi Tel Aviv, his agent George S. Langberg of GSL Sports Group tells @TheSteinLine.
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) July 24, 2025
Walker, who finished last season with the Sixers, has an NBA buyout clause until Aug. 1 and will be one of Europe’s highest-paid players. pic.twitter.com/AAqb9eVuWL
Walker appeared in 56 games for the Purple and Gold during the 2022-23 season, starting 32 of those contests. He joined the Lakers on a one-year, $6.5 million deal and outperformed that contract while in Los Angeles, as he turned into a core member of the rotation, averaging 11.7 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in 23.2 minutes per game.
His time in Southern California did not last beyond that season, though, as the team's run to the Western Conference finals was his last hurrah with the Lakers. This was also the last time Walker sniffed the NBA playoffs, as he most recently suited up for the Brooklyn Nets, and had a stint with Žalgiris Kaunas in Lithuania, before finishing the 2024-25 campaign with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Now, Walker returns to Europe but will have the opportunity to return stateside should his play for Maccabi generate interest among NBA teams. According to BasketNews.com, the former Miami Hurricanes standout has an NBA out in his contract through Aug. 1, 2025, as well as opportunities to opt out and sign an NBA deal during the summers of 2026 and 2027.
The 26-year-old is taking a risk by returning to Europe to continue his career. He has previously enjoyed success with this approach, though. So Walker seems comfortable betting on himself in this manner yet again with the hope it will provide him with a quality NBA opportunity.