Dennis Schroder’s Struggles Could Hurt Key Lakers Contract Decision

Dennis Schroder was brilliant in the first five games with the Los Angeles Lakers. Many experts believe he was a steal for the franchise. The German native was averaging 17.6 points, 5.2 assists, and 5.2 rebounds while shooting 50.7% from the field and 38.9% from the 3-point line. However, things changed overnight for the veteran. Schroder was set to sign a nice deal with the Lakers, but the front office will be really careful with his potential contract and the decision they are set to make.

Since the first five games, Schroder is averaging 12.4 points while shooting 39.1% from the field and 27.8% from the 3-point line in the next 17 games with the Lakers.

The Lakers got Schroder in November. The front office traded Danny Green and a first-round pick. Schroder is in the final year of his contract and is set to earn $15.5 million. Los Angeles has already discussed Schroder’s contract extension. According to NBA rules, the franchise couldn’t offer Schroder more than a two-year deal worth $33 million.

The Lakers have plenty of time to give Schroder a good contract and make the right decision

Starting February 16, LA can offer Schroder a four-year deal worth $82 million. They have to make a decision by the end of the season.

Schroder wants a “fair” deal and this made people ask questions.

“From the first day, it felt like we have been together for like a month or two,” he said. “The chemistry is amazing. That’s the reason why I think I want to be here long-term, but like I said before, it’s always got to be fair on both ends. If it’s fair, then I ain’t got no problem. It’s going to be great to be here long-term, for sure.”

The veteran is averaging 13.6 points per game with the Lakers. This is his lowest average since his third season in the league. Schroder is shooting 42.1 percent and that’s the third-worst mark in his career. He is shooting 30.6% from the 3-point line which is also a third-worst mark. Schroder is 27 and LA has enough time to make the right decision. The Lakers may give Schroder a good deal even if his stats don’t improve. He can easily be a trade chip.