In the aftermath of Kawhi Leonard’s decision to sign with the LA Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers went on to fill out their roster with role players and pretty much constructed the team for the next NBA season. Still, the team left the final roster spot open and reportedly, they hope to fill it with forward Andre Iguodala.
ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reports that Lakers’ are currently happy with the players they have on the roster, but hope they could get Igoudala as an “X-factor” who would help them make a run for an NBA title.
“They feel like he could be an X-factor type of guy to add with the group they already have.” – says McMenamin.
Andre Igoudala going to the Lakers wouldn’t be a surprise, as the player reportedly wants to play for a contender next season. Also, the team’s general manager Rob Pelinka was Igoudala’s agent at one point, so he could play a crucial role in recruiting the 35-year-old.
The only thing that might get in the way of Lakers’ plans is the fact that Igoudala is still under contract with Memphis Grizzlies. Although the player is pushing for some kind of a buyout agreement, Grizzlies would prefer to trade him and get some assets in return.
Igoudala averaged 5.7 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game with the Golden State Warriors last season. He was traded to the Grizzlies in June as part of the Warriors’ efforts to clear cap space in order to sign D’Angelo Russell.
