After making some bigger moves earlier this off-season such as trading for Jeremy Lin and signing Carlos Boozer, the Lakers are now focused on filling out the little holes on the roster.
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They have chosen to do that by bringing back some of the best players from last season. Already coming to agreements with Xavier Henry and Wesley Johnson earlier today, the Lakers have also agreed to bring back Ryan Kelly according to the LA Times’ Mike Bresnahan:
Busy day for the Lakers, who reached agreement with Ryan Kelly, Xavier Henry and Wesley Johnson. Not many roster spots left.
— Mike Bresnahan (@Mike_Bresnahan) July 19, 2014
This move was another expected one as the Lakers were in dire need of shooting and Kelly provides that. He proved last season that he can be a contributor, and the Lakers will be looking for him to continue to develop.
The contract specifics are unknown as of this time, but it is likely that it is a one or two-year for a relatively cheap price.
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Kelly took some time to get into the rotation, but once he got on the court, he was able to stay on the court thanks to his ability to spread the floor. He also showed potential as a solid rebounder and team defender.
Kelly’s signing makes for 13 players on the Lakers roster, meaning the Lakers roster is more or less set. All that’s left for the Lakers to do is hire a coach. When that announcement comes, remains to be seen.
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Lakers Acquire Carlos Boozer