Despite seeing his role constantly changing throughout the year, Wayne Ellington wound up being one of the more consistent players on the Los Angeles Lakers roster last season. An excellent shooter, Ellington would have made sense to keep around as a veteran backcourt presence and shooter off the bench, but that won’t be the case.
— Have you seen the ‘Lakers Nation’ phone case? —
According to Tim Bontemps of the New York Post, Ellington has agreed to a one-year deal with the Brooklyn Nets for $1.5 million:
Wayne Ellington's deal for this year is for $1.5 million, according to league sources. Nets used most of the remainder of their mini MLE.
— Tim Bontemps (@TimBontemps) July 9, 2015
Ellington enjoyed a career year for the Lakers last season averaging highs in points, rebounds, and assists. He also shot 37 percent from deep despite attempting nearly four threes per game. All of this despite dealing with the tragic death of his father during the season.
For the Lakers, the backcourt remains relatively crowded despite the loss of Ellington. The team drafted D’Angelo Russell to go along with First-Team All-Rookie selection Jordan Clarkson. The Lakers have also reportedly agreed to a deal with Lou Williams, and still have the non-guaranteed contract of Jabari Brown.
Kobe Bryant and Nick Young are both natural shooting guards though they may be forced to play small forward due to this roster. Ellington was a true professional during his season with the Lakers and while it would have made sense to bring him back, the Lakers should be fine in the backcourt.
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