NBA, Team News / Analysis, Player News / Analysis, Ramon Sessions, Mitch Kupchak, Los Angeles Lakers
In a conference call today with LA Lakers beat writers, General Manager Mitch Kupchak spoke about Ramon Sessions's intentions not to pick up his player option for next season. As of July 1st, the point guard will explore free agency.
According to Kupchak, Sessions did express that he wanted to stay in LA, but is going to see what happens. Kupchak also said that he would have liked to keep Sessions, and they may, but it depends on the offers that come his way.
Last season, Sessions averaged 11.3 points, 3.3 rebounds and 5.5 assists. He made $4.3 million, and the option he rejected was for $4.6 million.
It's unclear what Sessions is looking for in free agency. He likes the city of LA, but apparently thinks he'll get a bigger payday elsewhere. While his stats don't typically merit more than a $4 million contract, this offseason may be a bit different. There are some big name point guards like Deron Williams and Rajon Rondo entering free agency. This can either bolster Sessions's stance, or detract from it.
He'll find a home somewhere, and now the Lakers must plan to move on without him.
Another player they picked up in their trade last year was Jordan Hill, who is also a free agent this offseason. The Lakers should take a serious look at negotiating a contract with him, because he's a solid backup center, which they need to give Bynum some rest.
