Following a slew of notable signings on Monday and Tuesday, the Los Angeles Lakers waived wing Alfonzo McKinnie, according to The Athletic's Shams Charania. McKinnie's $1.9 million contract was non-guaranteed for 2021-22.
The move, which was expected though not guaranteed, gives the Lakers three roster spots to fill with their limited resources.
The Lakers only have veteran minimums at their disposal, though that hasn't seemed to be a deterrent two days into free agency. Los Angeles has already agreed to terms with Carmelo Anthony, Malik Monk, Dwight Howard, Trevor Ariza, Wayne Ellington, and Kent Bazemore — all on the minimum.
Prior to the McKinnie news, the Lakers agreed to terms with Kendrick Nunn on a two-year, $10 million deal that will use up most of the Lakers' $5.9 million taxpayer mid-level exception. Los Angeles also brought back Talen Horton-Tucker on a reasonable three-year deal.
McKinnie, 28, has played for four franchises (Toronto Raptors, Golden State Warriors, Cleveland Cavaliers, Lakers) in his four-year NBA career. In 39 appearances with the Lakers in 2020-21, he averaged 3.1 points in 6.6 minutes per game. The 6'7 small forward knocked down 16 of his 39 threes last season.
McKinnie paid his dues before getting a shot in the NBA. He played in Luxembourg's second division, Mexico, and the G League.
The Lakers can re-sign Wesley Matthews, though that looks increasingly unlikely with each wing they bring aboard. Jared Dudley, who accompanied LeBron James and Anthony Davis to a recruitment dinner with Russell Westbrook, is expected to get a roster spot for his locker room value. (He put the chances at “1,000 percent.”)
GM Rob Pelinka is still trying to sign-and-trade Dennis Schroder, though the market is quickly drying up. Either way, the McKinnie decision signals that Pelinka may have more tricks up his sleeve. The Lakers still need a backup point guard.
Follow Us
Subscribe