The Los Angeles Lakers have made another strategic move in their ongoing effort to build a competitive roster around their superstar core, signing forward Jake LaRavia to a two-year deal. This signing may not dominate the headlines like a blockbuster trade or a max-contract free-agent acquisition, but it’s the kind of under-the-radar move that could pay dividends for the Purple and Gold as they look to solidify their depth and add versatility to their rotation. LaRavia, a 6’7” forward out of Wake Forest, brings a unique skill set that aligns well with the modern NBA’s demand for positionless basketball, and his arrival in Los Angeles could prove to be a savvy addition for a team looking to maximize its roster flexibility.
LaRavia entered the NBA as the 19th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, selected by the Memphis Grizzlies. During his time in Memphis, he showed flashes of the potential that made him a first-round pick, particularly with his ability to stretch the floor, defend multiple positions, and make smart plays within the flow of the offense. While his playing time was somewhat inconsistent on a deep Grizzlies squad, his per-minute production and advanced metrics suggested he was a player who could contribute in a larger role if given the opportunity. Now, with the Lakers, he may finally get that chance.
One of the most appealing aspects of LaRavia’s game is his shooting. At Wake Forest, he shot over 38% from three-point range during his final collegiate season, and in the NBA, he has demonstrated a smooth, repeatable stroke that should translate well to a larger offensive role. The Lakers have long prioritized floor spacing to maximize the effectiveness of LeBron James and Anthony Davis, and LaRavia’s ability to knock down open shots will be a valuable asset. Whether he’s spotting up in the corner or relocating off ball movement, his presence on the perimeter will force defenses to respect him, opening up driving lanes for James and Austin Reaves while giving Davis more room to operate in the post.
Beyond his shooting, LaRavia is a high-IQ player who understands how to move without the ball, cut at the right moments, and make the extra pass. He’s not a primary creator, but he doesn’t need to be on a team with multiple playmakers. Instead, he excels in a complementary role, making quick decisions and keeping the offense flowing. His basketball instincts are evident in his ability to read defenses, whether he’s setting a timely screen, making a backdoor cut, or swinging the ball to an open teammate. These kinds of subtle contributions often go unnoticed but are critical to winning basketball, especially in a system that relies on ball movement and player movement like the one the Lakers are expected to run under head coach JJ Redick.
Defensively, LaRavia has the tools to be a versatile contributor. At 6’7” with a solid frame and good lateral quickness, he can guard multiple positions, switching onto wings and even some bigger guards when necessary. His length and anticipation allow him to disrupt passing lanes, and he’s a capable rebounder for his position. The Lakers have emphasized defensive versatility in recent years, and LaRavia fits that mold perfectly. Whether he’s tasked with checking smaller, quicker forwards or helping to close out on shooters, his defensive flexibility will be an asset in a Western Conference loaded with elite perimeter talent.
Another factor that makes this signing intriguing is LaRavia’s age and upside. At just 22 years old, he’s still developing and has room to grow into a more impactful player. The Lakers have done well in recent years identifying young talent that can contribute immediately while also having long-term potential—players like Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Max Christie come to mind—and LaRavia could be the latest example. If he continues to refine his game, improves his consistency as a shooter, and gains more confidence in his offensive role, he could evolve into a reliable rotation piece or even a starter-caliber player down the line.
The two-year structure of the deal is also noteworthy. It gives the Lakers flexibility—if LaRavia outperforms expectations, they’ll have him on a team-friendly contract for an additional season. If not, they’re not locked into a long-term commitment. This kind of low-risk, high-reward move is exactly the type of roster-building strategy the Lakers need to employ as they balance competing now with maintaining future flexibility. With the new CBA rules making it more challenging for teams deep into the luxury tax to make significant roster changes, finding value in players like LaRavia becomes even more important.
From a roster construction standpoint, LaRavia adds depth to a forward rotation that already includes James, Hachimura, Taurean Prince, and possibly Vanderbilt, depending on how the Lakers choose to deploy their lineups. His ability to play both forward spots gives Redick options when it comes to mixing and matching lineups. In smaller units, LaRavia could slide to the four alongside James at the three, creating a versatile, switchable frontcourt. In bigger lineups, he could play the three next to Davis and another big, providing spacing while still holding his own defensively. His positional flexibility ensures that he’ll have opportunities to earn minutes in various configurations.
The Lakers’ offseason has been defined by a series of calculated moves rather than splashy headlines. After drafting Dalton Knecht and Bronny James, re-signing Max Christie, and now adding LaRavia, the front office has focused on building a balanced roster with a mix of youth and experience. LaRavia fits into that vision perfectly—a young player with untapped potential who can contribute right away while also growing alongside the team’s core. While he may not be a household name yet, his skill set aligns with what the Lakers need, and his development will be something to monitor closely as the season progresses.
Of course, there are no guarantees in the NBA, and LaRavia will have to earn his minutes in a competitive environment. The Lakers’ coaching staff will demand defensive effort, unselfish play, and consistency from him, and it will be up to LaRavia to prove he belongs in the rotation. But given his tools, work ethic, and basketball IQ, there’s reason to believe he can carve out a meaningful role. The Lakers have a history of getting the most out of players who may have been overlooked or underutilized elsewhere, and LaRavia could be the latest success story in that regard.
For Lakers fans, this signing should be seen as a positive step. It’s not the kind of move that will shift the championship odds dramatically, but it’s the type of under-the-radar addition that can make a real difference over the course of a long season. Playoff rotations are often won by depth, and LaRavia has the potential to be a valuable piece in that equation. If he can provide reliable three-point shooting, smart defense, and steady play off the bench, he’ll quickly endear himself to the fanbase and become a key part of the Lakers’ quest for another title.
In the grand scheme of things, the Lakers’ success next season will hinge on the health and performance of their stars, the effectiveness of their coaching staff, and their ability to compete in a loaded Western Conference. But championships are also won by the contributions of role players, and Jake LaRavia now has the opportunity to prove he can be one of those difference-makers. As the Lakers continue to fine-tune their roster ahead of training camp, this signing represents another step in the right direction—a move that adds depth, versatility, and upside without sacrificing future flexibility. Only time will tell how it plays out, but for now, the Lakers and their fans have reason to be optimistic about what LaRavia can bring to the table.
