The Los Angeles Lakers made a wise decision last summer when they signed Brandon Bass to a two-year contract for $6.1 million. The deal was below market value for a player of Bass’ caliber but contained a player option after the first year so that he could opt-out and seek a more lucrative deal this summer.
This was the third time in as many years that the Lakers reeled in a solid rotation player with this type of contract. Nick Young and Ed David both took two-year deals with player options, then opted out for a big pay raise after a solid season with the bright lights of Los Angeles shining upon them.
Now, Bass has followed suit and officially decided to become a free agent this summer, via Brad Turner of the L.A. Times:
Lakers forward Brandon Bass will excessive his option and will become a free agent, per his reps. Bass was due to make $3.1 mil.
— Brad Turner (@BA_Turner) June 16, 2016
Bass played well for the Lakers last season, acting as a both a backup center and power forward. While a tad undersized at 6’8″, his leaping ability and physical strength help to make him a force in the paint.
Even though Bass has opted to become a free agent, that doesn’t necessarily mean that he is on his way out of Los Angeles. On the contrary, he reportedly would like to stay with the Lakers:
Bass hopes to return to the Lakers and hopes the team wants him.
— Brad Turner (@BA_Turner) June 16, 2016
While Bass will certainly be looking for a long-term deal worth considerably more than the $3.1 million he was scheduled to make, he could be a worthwhile investment for the Lakers. Coach Luke Walton should be able to find ways to make up for Bass’ lack of height, and his versatility and athleticism could make him a nice fit in Walton’s Golden State Warriors-inspired offense.
Additionally, Bass is a solid veteran presence in the locker room. Larry Nance Jr. recently raved about how much playing next to Bass helped his own development. On a team full of young players, a hard-working veteran like Bass can set the example and tone for the rest to follow.
Bass will certainly have suitors on the free agent market, but assuming the price his right, it would be nice to see him continue his career with the Lakers.