Last summer, the Los Angeles Lakers made an underrated move by signing Ed Davis to a two-year, $2 million contract. While the attention has been on rookie Jordan Clarkson and rightfully so, Davis has been one of the few bright spots this season.
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With Davis planning to opt-out of his contract, the Lakers are interested in signing him to a long-term deal, but it will depend on his market value according to Mark Medina of the Los Angeles Daily News:
Davis will exercise his option by June 25 to become an unrestricted free agent. The Lakers’ interest in signing Davis to a long-term deal partly hinges on his market value. But the Lakers and Davis seem open to negotiating.
At his exit interview on Thursday, Davis made some encouraging statements, saying he isn’t going to chase money and hopes to return with the Lakers. For the first time in his career, the former lottery pick had an opportunity to showcase his skillset and averaged 8.3 points, 7.6 rebounds and 1.2 blocks.
While the Lakers will potentially have three draft picks and as much as $28 million in cap space, it appears they want Davis to be part of their long-term plans. Davis has earned high praise from head coach Byron Scott and his teammates throughout the season.
With the Lakers looking to take their next step in their rebuild, Davis is an important piece, but there are teams who are looking for a rim-protector and may outbid Los Angeles in free agency.
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