The Los Angeles Lakers have officially added former Memphis Grizzlies forward Jake LaRavia to their roster.
Following a disappointing early exit in the first round of the 2024-25 NBA playoffs—falling to the Minnesota Timberwolves in just five games—the Lakers knew they needed to make key adjustments. Despite landing superstar Luka Doncic in a blockbuster deal at the trade deadline, the team still had significant gaps to fill to become true title contenders.
Kicking off their 2025 offseason, the Lakers addressed two critical needs: shoring up their starting center position and strengthening their bench. After signing former No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton as their new starting big man, the team also brought in free agent Jake LaRavia to boost their depth on the wing.
LaRavia, 23, played three seasons with Memphis before being dealt to the Sacramento Kings in February. Now, he heads to Los Angeles for a fresh start with one of the league’s most high-profile franchises.
“Jake is a high IQ two-way player with ideal skills for a JJ Redick basketball system. He’s a disruptive defender who uses his size and physicality to create turnovers. Offensively, he can score at all three levels and has a knack for creating space for himself and his teammates,” said Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka.
Known for his versatility and defensive intensity, LaRavia also caught attention last season with a career-best 42.3% shooting from three-point range—a stat that likely boosted his value in free agency.
The Grizzlies no doubt felt his absence in the latter part of the season, while the Lakers may have struck gold by adding him from the open market.
