While the 2012-13 Lakers season didn’t go as planned, forward Earl Clark emerged off the bench to provide the team with a spark.
With the team ravaged by injuries early in the season, Clark filled in admirably averaging nine points and 6.8 rebounds in 36 starts.
Clark, who is a free agent this summer, stated his desire to Mark Medina of the L.A. Daily News to remain with the Lakers:
Earl Clark told me he wants to come back to Lakers even if they can only offer less money, fewer years compared to other possible teams
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) April 29, 2013
Clark was acquired with Dwight Howard and Chris Duhon over the summer from Orlando and was viewed as a throw-in. The Louisville product quickly grew on the Laker faithful and filled in admirably for Jordan Hill who was lost for 50 games this season.
With the Lakers facing several questions about the makeup of their team for next season, it isn’t known whether or not Clark figures into the teams long-term plans. News that he’ll accept a hometown discount after one season must be news to general manager Mitch Kupchak’s ears.
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