Los Angeles Lakers NBA Champion Reportedly Expected To Sign With 76ers
The Los Angeles Lakers' recent form has been a concern, with the team losing the last 5 games, including a 110-115 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on 2026-05-12. However, the focus is now on the departure of NBA champion Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who is reportedly expected to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers.
According to Chris Haynes of NBA on Prime, Caldwell-Pope and the Memphis Grizzlies are working on a buyout, which would allow him to join the 76ers as a free agent. The 33-year-old veteran 3-&-D specialist had averages of 8.4 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per contest while shooting 41.0% from the field and 31.6% from three-point range in 51 games.
What Happened?
Caldwell-Pope's departure from the Lakers comes after a season where he played a crucial role in the team's success. The two-time NBA champion has career averages of 11.0 points, 2.9 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.1 steals per contest while shooting 42.7% from the field and 36.5% from three-point range in 963 games.
Why It Matters For Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers will need to find a replacement for Caldwell-Pope, who was a key contributor to the team's success. The team's recent form has been a concern, and the departure of a key player will only add to the pressure.
What Comes Next?
The 76ers are expected to sign Caldwell-Pope, who will join a team that already has a strong roster. The addition of Caldwell-Pope will give the 76ers another shooter off the bench, which will be a significant boost to their offense.
In related news, the 76ers will need to reduce payroll and create roster spots to sign LeBron James and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. Jabari Walker and Dalen Terry are on non/partially guaranteed salaries.
Caldwell-Pope was the 8th pick in the 2013 NBA Draft out of Georgia. He has also spent time with the Detroit Pistons, Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Lakers, Orlando Magic, and Washington Wizards over 13 seasons.