Julius Randle was in a tough position this offseason. The Los Angeles Lakers have their sights set on clearing cap space in order to make a run at multiple star free agents like LeBron James and Paul George next summer, so adding future salary like an extension for Randle was always unlikely to happen.
And as expected, ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne reports that the two sides will not come to an agreement on an extension by the Monday deadline.
As expected no extension expected w/ Lakers & Julius Randle today. Team had cordial conversations but everyone understands cap space issue
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) October 16, 2017
Julius Randle could still return to the Lakers next season, though. He’s set to be a restricted free agent and the Lakers have the right to match any offer he receives. The Lakers could strongly consider bringing him back if they miss out on their ideal free-agent targets. But if the team does land the stars they were counting on, they could simply renounce Randle’s rights to open up more cap space.
Either way, this will be an important season for Randle. While he didn’t get to land an extension this offseason, he still has the chance to sign a big contract next summer — whether it’s with the Lakers or some other team — if he shows more improvements to his game and plays up to his potential.
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