Report: Situation Between Lakers and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is Difficult
The Los Angeles Lakers would love to keep Kentavious Caldwell-Pope on the roster. The veteran had a good role with the team this past season. But, there’s one major problem.
Los Angeles has only $16 million left below the salary cap. KCP opted out of his $8.4 million player option last week. In other words, he is looking for a contract worth more than $10 million. Brad Turner of the LA Times reported that both parties want to get the team done. But, the most GM Rob Pelinka can offer is $12 million.
If LA re-signs KCP to a $12 million deal, the team will have enough money to fill in holes on the roster. They can easily get players on minimum-salary contracts. But, the problems don’t end here. The New York Knicks and a few other teams have shown interest in signing KCP. New York can easily give the Lakers veteran more than $12 million.
Lakers front office may lose Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
Caldwell-Pope had a good season with the Lakers. He was averaging 9.3 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game with the team this past season. KCP had some struggles in the regular season, but he had an amazing performance in the playoffs. His numbers went higher. The Lakers guard was averaging 10.7 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 29 minutes per playoff game with the Lakers. LeBron James was really impressed with KCP’s performance in the postseason and used the chance to praise his work.
If Caldwell-Pope doesn’t re-sign with the Lakers, the team will receive a big blow. KCP was the third-best player in the playoffs. LeBron and his teammates will miss KCP in the upcoming season. But, Pelinka will probably do the best for the team. Los Angeles has the shortest offseason in team history, and there’s no room and time for mistakes. The defending champions have to act fast and adjust the roster to perfection.
Danny Green and Quinn Cook are no longer part of the Lakers. The team has signed Montrezl Harrell and Dennis Schroder. Who is next on the list?
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About The Author
R. M.
Radmila graduated with a degree in Translation & Interpreting. She is an NBA and NFL writer for The Ball Zone, and has been covering popular sports topics for several years. A loyal Lakers fan, she puts energy into reporting big roster moves, potential trades, on-court-accomplishments, and off-court rumors.
