2 players Lakers are interested in re-signing
Free agency is approaching, LA
As the NBA free agency period approaches, the Los Angeles Lakers are actively looking to solidify their roster for the upcoming season following the drafting of Bronny James. According to recent reports, the Lakers have expressed a strong interest in re-signing two key players: Spencer Dinwiddie and Taurean Prince. Both players have demonstrated their value on the court, and bringing them back would help the Lakers maintain continuity and competitiveness after an interesting draft.
Spencer Dinwiddie, who has had a rollercoaster career over the past few seasons, finds himself once again a hot commodity in the free agent market. After a notable stint with the Brooklyn Nets, where he averaged 16.5 points, 9.1 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game following the Kyrie Irving trade during the 2022-23 season, Dinwiddie was traded to the Toronto Raptors. His time with the Raptors was short-lived as he was waived and subsequently signed by the Lakers, fulfilling a childhood dream of playing for his favorite team.
Dinwiddie’s impact with the Lakers was immediate and significant. His ability to penetrate off the dribble, create scoring opportunities, and guard on the perimeter made him a valuable asset. The Lakers’ interest in re-signing him is a testament to his versatility and skill set. However, they are not alone in their pursuit. The Dallas Mavericks, who had previously shown significant interest in Dinwiddie when he became a free agent, are also expected to be contenders in the race to sign him again.
Taurean Prince, another key player for the Lakers, is also on the team’s re-signing radar. Prince’s performance last season was solid, as he shot 39.6 percent from beyond the arc and started 49 of 78 games. His shooting efficiency and ability to stretch the floor have made him an integral part of the Lakers’ offensive strategy.
Prince’s potential new contract is projected to be in the range of two years and $11 million, a deal that could be facilitated using his non-bird rights. This provision allows the Lakers to offer a contract starting at 120 percent of his previous salary, providing a feasible path to retaining his services without significant salary cap complications.
Re-signing both Dinwiddie and Prince is crucial for the Lakers as they aim to build on their recent successes and address any gaps in their roster. Dinwiddie’s playmaking ability and experience in high-pressure situations, coupled with Prince’s consistent shooting and defensive capabilities, offer a balanced approach to both ends of the court.
The Lakers’ front office, led by General Manager Rob Pelinka, has been strategic in its approach to free agency. Retaining key players while exploring opportunities to enhance the roster’s depth and versatility remains a priority. Both Dinwiddie and Prince have proven their worth, and their return would provide the team with a solid foundation to build upon.
Challenges and Competition in Free Agency for the Los Angeles Lakers
While the Lakers have a clear interest in re-signing Dinwiddie and Prince, the free agency landscape is competitive and unpredictable. Other teams, particularly the Dallas Mavericks in the case of Dinwiddie, are likely to present attractive offers. The Lakers will need to navigate these challenges and make compelling cases to both players, emphasizing the potential for championship contention and the advantages of continuity within the team.
