With their disastrous 2021-22 season nearing an end, the Los Angeles Lakers are about to make a roster move.
It is not a sexy one, but it could have some implications down the road.
Via Lakers Daily:
“The Los Angeles Lakers reportedly intend to waive veteran forward Trevor Ariza in order to free up an extra roster spot.
“The Lakers could use the roster spot to convert a young player to an NBA deal or sign a player that is a free agent.”
Ariza, 36, was signed as a free agent last summer. Management expected him to provide quality depth in the frontcourt, especially while playing the 4 position.
However, he proved that he is washed up. The University of California, Los Angeles product is averaging just 4.0 points in 19.3 minutes per game while shooting 33.3 percent from the field and 27.0 percent from 3-point range.
The Los Angeles Lakers intend to waive Trevor Ariza and use roster spot to convert a young player prior to Sunday’s deadline to sign a player, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. Open roster spot now provides flexibility to add to roster.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 7, 2022
If the Lakers will use the roster spot that will be created to convert a young player, it could presumably mean that forward Wenyen Gabriel would be signed to a contract. He is currently on a two-way deal.
Gabriel, a young, energetic 6-foot-9 frontcourt player, is raw, but he has impressed head coach Frank Vogel with his energy and effort, especially on the defensive end.
However, L.A. could also use that spot to sign another player.
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