The Los Angeles Lakers kicked off free agency with a jaw-dropping move, signing 23-year-old Jake LaRavia to a bargain contract worth just $6 million per year over two seasons. This 6’8 wing, previously with the Memphis Grizzlies, is one of the most underrated young talents in the NBA, and the Lakers have landed a player whose value far exceeds his modest price tag. With an impressive 0.104 win shares per 48 minutes (WS/48) and a skill set that mirrors Dorian Finney-Smith at a fraction of the cost, LaRavia’s signing is sending shockwaves through the league.
A Hidden Gem Emerges
LaRavia, a 2022 first-round pick (19th overall), didn’t get much opportunity in his first two seasons with the Grizzlies, often buried on the depth chart. However, the 2024-25 season was a breakout year for the 6’8 forward. He averaged 6.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 0.9 steals in just 20.4 minutes per game, shooting an efficient 47.5% from the field and an eye-popping 42.3% from beyond the arc. His 0.8 value over replacement player (VORP) and 0.104 WS/48 highlight his ability to make a tangible impact, placing him among the league’s above-average contributors.
What makes this signing even more remarkable is the context. Memphis declined LaRavia’s team option, making him a free agent, and the Lakers swooped in to secure a player who could be a cornerstone of their rotation. At $6 million per year, LaRavia’s contract is a masterclass in value, especially in the second apron era, where every dollar counts.
The Finney-Smith Replacement
The Lakers’ decision to let Dorian Finney-Smith, a proven 3-and-D wing and Luka Doncic’s close teammate, walk in free agency raised eyebrows. But general manager Rob Pelinka and the front office had a plan. LaRavia, at 23 years old, brings a similar skill set—elite shooting and versatile defense—but at roughly half the price of what Finney-Smith would have commanded. While Finney-Smith is a known commodity, LaRavia’s youth, upside, and efficiency make him a potential upgrade.
LaRavia’s shooting prowess is particularly exciting. Last season, he shot 43.9% on catch-and-shoot threes and an incredible 45.5% on wide-open triples. Pairing him with Luka Doncic, whose ability to collapse defenses and create open looks is unmatched, could unlock LaRavia’s full potential. The 6’8 wing could quickly become one of the league’s premier shooters, thriving in LA’s high-octane offense under head coach JJ Redick.
A Perfect Fit for the Lakers
LaRavia’s game is tailor-made for the modern NBA. His ability to stretch the floor, defend multiple positions, and contribute on both ends makes him an ideal fit for the Lakers’ roster. His 75.1% career free-throw shooting and per-minute production suggest he can scale up in a larger role, potentially becoming a key rotation player in his fourth NBA season.
In an era where financial flexibility is critical, signing a 3-and-D wing like LaRavia for just $6 million per year is nothing short of a coup. His 0.104 WS/48 is a testament to his efficiency, and his potential to outplay his contract could make him worth 10 times more than Finney-Smith in terms of value per dollar. For a team looking to maximize depth and talent around stars like Doncic, LaRavia is a game-changer.
A Statement Move by Rob Pelinka
Credit goes to Rob Pelinka and the Lakers’ front office for identifying and securing LaRavia before other teams could capitalize on his availability. While Lakers fans may not yet be familiar with the young wing, they soon will be. His combination of size, shooting, and defensive versatility makes him a player to watch, and his bargain contract gives the Lakers room to make additional moves.
The NBA is buzzing about this signing, and for good reason. The Lakers didn’t just replace Finney-Smith—they potentially upgraded with a younger, cheaper, and more efficient player. As the team continues to build its roster, LaRavia’s addition signals that Pelinka is playing chess while others play checkers. Expect the 6’8 beast to make an immediate impact and prove why this deal is an absolute steal.
Stay tuned as the Lakers continue to reshape their roster. If this first move is any indication, Los Angeles is poised for a transformative offseason.