The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for a pivotal offseason, with several key players potentially hitting free agency. Among the big names like Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, and LeBron James, there's another player who’s quietly become essential to their lineup-Luke Kennard.
Kennard, acquired from the Atlanta Hawks just before the NBA trade deadline, is wrapping up the final year of his contract. Standing at 6-foot-5, Kennard has showcased his versatility, proving he's more than just a sharpshooter from beyond the arc.
Reports indicate that the Lakers have a strong desire to keep Kennard in the fold. His fit alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves has been particularly noted, with sources suggesting the team will make a concerted effort to re-sign him once free agency opens.
This season, Kennard is leading the league with an impressive 48.3% from three-point range. But his game extends beyond perimeter shooting-he's adept at attacking closeouts, handling the ball, and making smart passes to maintain offensive flow. His contributions have translated to an average of 8.2 points over 21 minutes per game.
Since the All-Star break, the Lakers have been lighting it up from downtown, ranking third in the league at 38%-a significant leap from their pre-break position at 20th. Kennard’s impact on this turnaround is undeniable.
With up to $60 million in salary cap space available this summer, the Lakers have a golden opportunity to construct a roster capable of contending for a championship. Kennard’s current $11 million salary could be a key piece in their plans, especially if they look to build around Doncic and a potentially re-signed Reaves. The coming months will be crucial as the Lakers aim to solidify their lineup for the future.