Roughly two years after signing a four-year, $40 million contract with the Brooklyn Nets, DeAndre Jordan was traded to the Detroit Pistons last week. Two days later, he was immediately waived and ended up signing with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Jordan will make $2.6 million this season, approximately $1.6 million of which will be paid by L.A.
Reactions to the move were mixed. Dwight Howard had one take on the move, while Marc Gasol had another.
After the Jordan signing became official, one big question on everyone’s mind was: how does Anthony Davis feel about it?
As it turns out, Davis was incredibly happy with the Lakers’ decision to onboard Jordan.
“I don’t think my role changes much. I’m here to defend, rebound, and get extra possessions for my team.” @DeAndre talks with @geeter3 about his decision to join the #LakeShow, fitting in with the current roster, and the key to making a Big Three work. pic.twitter.com/Q9SihFj9Po
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) September 9, 2021
“AD actually thanked Rob (Pelinka) when you guys walked by,” Chris McGee of Spectrum SportsNet told Jordan. “I mean listen, you’ve been in the league a long time, you have a lot of accolades, but it still probably feels good when superstars from another team are excited to have you.”
Fans noticed something behind Tom Brady. https://t.co/pLe1Fy77TT
— Game 7 (@game7__) September 13, 2021
“Yeah, it feels good, man,” Jordan replied. “Like I said, just to be in a situation where it’s beneficial, I’m super excited about it, being able to play with these guys with this caliber of talent, who have been in this league for a long time and who have won. I’m really excited to be a part of this and not only be teammates, but not have to guard these guys anymore (laughs). It’s just an exciting time.”
Between the situation surrounding head coach Frank Vogel and Carmelo Anthony’s disturbing off-the-court drama, it remains to be seen if the Lakers will be able to focus on winning a championship this year. If they are able to get it together, however, they’re as talented as any team in the NBA.
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Charles Kruger has been credentialed to cover two Super Bowls, four NBA Finals, and one World Series. A 20-year veteran in the sports world, he has sources spanning the NBA, MLB, NFL, UFC and NASCAR. Currently residing in Los Angeles, Calif., he is Game 7’s go-to source for rumors surrounding the Lakers, Clippers and Dodgers.
