- Los Angeles Lakers have signed free agent Christian Wood on a two-year contract
- Wood plays as a forward/center and joins LA Lakers on a deal worth $5.7 million
- This deal also includes a player option for the 2024-25 season
Christian Wood, a versatile forward/center who was a free agent, has sealed a lucrative two-year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers worth $5.7 million. This agreement also includes a player option for the 2024-25 season, as disclosed by sources on Tuesday night. The Lakers’ General Manager, Rob Pelinka, formally confirmed the deal on Wednesday, although the financial terms were not disclosed.
Wood’s decision to join the Lakers provides him with an opportunity to contribute to a Western Conference contender while also aiming to enhance his market value for a potential return to free agency in 2024. In return, the Lakers acquire a highly skilled big man who adds significant versatility and depth to their front line.
The Lakers have been active in acquiring talent this offseason, and the addition of Christian Wood, along with the signing of 7-footer Jaxson Hayes in free agency, indicates a strategic move to reduce the minutes that star player Anthony Davis has to log at the center position during the upcoming season.
Christian Wood has signed for Los Angeles Lakers on a two-year contract worth $5.7 million. | PHOTO: BR |
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During the 2022-23 season, Christian Wood showcased his abilities by averaging 16.6 points and 7.3 rebounds per game while playing for the Dallas Mavericks. Notably, he had a standout performance on Christmas Day against the Lakers, where he tallied an impressive 30 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 steals.
One of Wood’s key strengths is his ability to stretch the floor in the frontcourt, making him a valuable asset for the Lakers. According to ESPN Stats & Information, he is among the select group of players who are 6-foot-10 or taller and have made 100 or more 3-pointers in each of the past two seasons. The other players in this exclusive category include Nikola Vucevic, Lauri Markkanen, and Jaren Jackson Jr.
Wood’s proficiency from beyond the arc is evident in his career 3-point shooting percentage, which stands at an impressive 38% over the past four seasons. His arrival in Los Angeles could be a significant boost for the Lakers, as the team struggled with their 3-point shooting last season, ranking 25th in the league with a shooting percentage of only 34%.
Christian Wood’s journey to the Lakers has seen him spend the previous season with the Dallas Mavericks and the two seasons before that with the Houston Rockets. This move to the Lakers represents a new chapter in his career, and the team is undoubtedly banking on his scoring ability, versatility, and floor-spacing skills to make a positive impact in the upcoming season.
In conclusion, Christian Wood’s signing with the Los Angeles Lakers brings a talented and versatile big man to their roster. With his proven ability to stretch the floor and contribute both offensively and defensively, Wood’s presence is expected to enhance the Lakers’ front-line depth and provide valuable options for their upcoming campaign.
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