The Lakers have high hopes for him heading into next season.
The Los Angeles Lakers have made waves in the NBA free agency market with their strategic acquisitions this summer, and their latest move—signing Jake LaRavia to a two-year, $12 million deal—has sent shockwaves through the league. While the Lakers also secured Deandre Ayton to solidify their starting center position, it’s the addition of LaRavia that has analysts and fans buzzing about the team’s potential for the upcoming season.
A Low-Risk, High-Reward Signing
LaRavia, a sharpshooting forward, brings a skill set that perfectly addresses one of the Lakers’ most glaring needs: consistent three-point shooting. Last season, while splitting time between the Sacramento Kings and Memphis Grizzlies, LaRavia showcased his ability to stretch the floor, averaging 6.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. His shooting splits were particularly impressive, with a 47.5% field goal percentage and an outstanding 42.3% from beyond the three-point arc.
According to ESPN’s Kevin Pelton, LaRavia’s shooting prowess is what makes him such an intriguing addition. “LaRavia led all players with at least 90 attempts (a bar he barely cleared) by shooting 46% on above-the-break 3s, per The F5 newsletter,” Pelton noted. This elite shooting ability, particularly on above-the-break threes, gives the Lakers a versatile weapon off the bench, capable of creating space for stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Why LaRavia Fits the Lakers’ Vision
The Lakers’ decision to sign LaRavia is a masterclass in low-risk, high-reward roster building. At just $12 million over two years, the deal is a bargain for a player with LaRavia’s upside. While he may not get the same volume of open looks in Los Angeles due to the team’s crowded offensive lineup, his ability to knock down shots from the corner and stretch defenses makes him a perfect fit for the Lakers’ system. The team has struggled with consistent outside shooting in recent seasons, and LaRavia’s skill set directly addresses that weakness.
Los Angeles sees LaRavia as a player who can thrive in a limited role, providing spacing and defensive versatility without being asked to carry a heavy load. His ability to do “one thing really well”—shoot from deep—makes him an ideal role player for a team with championship aspirations. If LaRavia can maintain his efficiency from three-point range, he could become a fan favorite at Crypto.com Arena.
Opportunity Knocks for LaRavia
With the Lakers reportedly moving on from Dalton Knecht, LaRavia has a golden opportunity to carve out a significant role. If he performs well early in the season, he could earn substantial minutes when the stakes are highest in the playoffs. The Lakers’ coaching staff, led by JJ Redick, is known for rewarding players who execute their roles effectively, and LaRavia’s shooting could make him a key piece in critical moments.
While LaRavia’s overall numbers last season were modest, his efficiency and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor make him a player to watch. His 42.3% three-point shooting is a rare commodity, and the Lakers are banking on him to provide a spark off the bench.
A New Era for the Lakers
The addition of LaRavia, alongside Deandre Ayton, signals the Lakers’ intent to build a roster that complements their star duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. By addressing key weaknesses with smart, cost-effective signings, Los Angeles is positioning itself as a legitimate contender in the Western Conference. LaRavia’s $12 million deal may not have the flash of a blockbuster trade, but its impact could be felt across the league as the Lakers aim to reclaim their spot among the NBA’s elite.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on LaRavia to see if he can live up to the hype. If his shooting translates to the Lakers’ system, this under-the-radar signing could prove to be one of the steals of the offseason, sending shockwaves through the league and giving Los Angeles the edge they need to compete for a championship.