Los Angeles Lakers Made Jake LaRavia Their Top Free Agency Priority With a $12 Million Deal

People expected the Los Angeles Lakers to target a center on Day 1. Instead, they made their first free-agency call to Jake LaRavia, a 23-year-old wing who’s now secured for $12 million over two years.

That early choice wasn’t just a temporary fix for Dorian Finney-Smith—it was a statement. The Los Angeles Lakers are looking to think bigger, smarter, and younger, with Pelinka and Redick putting together a team that can evolve both now and later.

Pelinka and Redick Bet on Jake LaRavia’s Defensive IQ and Versatility to Anchor the New Rotation

In a surprising twist for fans who thought the Lakers would go after a seasoned center, L.A. reached out to LaRavia first — and they did it with enthusiasm. As reported by Dan Woike from The Athletic, sources within the league have confirmed that LaRavia was the Lakers’ initial contact as soon as free agency kicked off at 3 p.m.

PT. During that call, Rob Pelinka and J.J. Redick both highlighted how LaRavia's defensive intelligence and 3-and-D capabilities align perfectly with their developing strategy.LaRavia is signing with L.A. for a two-year deal worth $12 million guaranteed, as first reported by Shams Charania from The Athletic and confirmed by multiple sources. At just 23 years old, he adds youthful energy, boasting a 37.1% career shooting percentage from beyond the arc over 136 NBA games, along with a renewed sense of stability to the wing position—especially after Finney-Smith left to join the Houston Rockets on a four-year, $53 million contract.

L.A.'s goals go beyond just LaRavia. The front office, still reeling from missing Brook Lopez and Clint Capela, has set its sights on Deandre Ayton—who won't be off waivers until Wednesday—as their struggling center. With LaRavia signed, the Lakers have turned a missing wing into a clever launchpad for ongoing roster enhancements.

Focusing on LaRavia shows that the Lakers are embracing youth and adaptability. Bringing in some perimeter versatility is a savvy move for cap management—L.A.

keeps its mid-level exception options open and creates room for possible center changes in 2027. Plus, it’s significant that LaRavia has the same agents as Austin Reaves, who helped out during their summer training—making it easier for him to fit into the locker room and lineup.Meanwhile, LeBron James has decided to take his $52.6 million player option for the 2025-26 season. His agent, Rich Paul, pointed out that there are "no trade discussions" at the moment.

However, James is hopeful that the Lakers will assemble a competitive lineup. This scenario creates some pressure on L.A. to support both Dončić and James, all while juggling their current competitiveness and future cap flexibility.Also Read: Draymond Green reveals what Golden State Warriors must do after pairing Stephen Curry with Jimmy ButlerThey’re developing through clever depth, youthful spirit, and flexibility. Sure, the center situation is still a significant worry, but this wing-first tactic eases the sting of losing Finney-Smith and allows time to acquire a big player. As the Pelinka-Redick era unfolds, LaRavia could become the cornerstone of a fresh, energetic Lakers core—one aimed at keeping LeBron engaged and paving the way for a championship.