The Los Angeles Lakers didn’t make a flashy splash to open free agency—but they did make a calculated, strategic move. Their first signing: 23-year-old wing Jake LaRavia, who joins the team on a two-year, $12 million deal. While some fans were underwhelmed, the Lakers—and LaRavia himself—see this move as a seamless fit.
A Smart Signing for a Smart System
President of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka made it clear this wasn’t just a depth move. “Jake is a high-IQ two-way player with ideal skills for a JJ Redick basketball system,” Pelinka said. “He’s a disruptive defender… [who] can score at all three levels and has a knack for creating space for himself and his teammates.”
That sentiment is echoed by LaRavia, who’s already embraced his expected role as a complementary, playmaking connector. “I consider myself a high-IQ type player,” he said at his introductory press conference. “Just being able to make the easy pass and get the ball there.”
Learning from Lakers Legends
Part of LaRavia’s excitement comes from the opportunity to play with—and learn from—some of the game’s smartest playmakers. “I’m playing with guys like Luka and LeBron that see the court so much differently,” LaRavia explained. “I complement those high IQ guys. Just being able to space the floor, cutting… I’m just going to have so many easy buckets.”
LaRavia averaged 6.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.4 assists last season between Sacramento and Memphis. He shot a stellar 42.3% from deep, reinforcing his value as a 3&D wing. Though not as defensively acclaimed as Dorian Finney-Smith—whom he is effectively replacing—LaRavia is improving on that end.
“I take pride in my defense now, especially,” he said. “Taking the toughest matchup is something that I’ve grown on.”
Embracing JJ Redick’s Vision
New head coach JJ Redick sees LaRavia’s versatility as key to unlocking offensive flow. “We were talking about where he sees me on the court,” LaRavia said. “He knows I can complement players like Luka and LeBron well… and also be that guy to step up defensively.”
Though not a blockbuster signing, LaRavia is the kind of under-the-radar addition the Lakers hope can thrive in Redick’s modern, motion-based system. His ability to connect, shoot, and defend at multiple positions fits the new direction.
With Deandre Ayton and Adou Thiero also added this offseason, the Lakers are betting on versatility and development rather than stars. For LaRavia, it’s the ideal setting. “This was the spot,” he said. “I feel like I’ll fit right in.”