According to a report by NBA insider Shams Charania on November 1, the Los Angeles Lakers have declined the $4 million team option for guard Jalen Hood-Schifino for the next season.
This move means that Hood-Schifino will become an unrestricted free agent in 2025, indicating that the Lakers do not see him as part of their future plans. The decision also provides the Lakers with more flexibility in roster configuration and salary cap space.
Hood-Schifino, 21, was selected 17th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft. Last season, he averaged 1.6 points and 0.6 rebounds in 21 games. He spent part of the season with the South Bay Lakers, the team’s G League affiliate, where he played in 15 games and averaged 22 points per game.
During training camp, Rui Hachimura spoke about Hood-Schifino, saying, “Jalen has been doing really well. I can tell he’s put in a lot of work to get stronger. He looks stronger and more confident… He looks strong and healthy, and I like what I see.” However, Hood-Schifino failed to impress new head coach JJ Redick enough to secure a regular rotation spot. He has yet to make his debut in the 2024-25 season and has been assigned to the South Bay Lakers.
Entering the free market could be beneficial for Hood-Schifino as well, as he needs a fresh start elsewhere. In Los Angeles, he was unable to get sufficient playing time to grow.
Lakers’ First Departure of the Year: Team Declines Jalen Hood-Schifino’s $4M Option for Next Season. Author：Sports UEFA.Please indicate the source when reproduced：https://www.sportsuefa.com/basketball-headlines/lakers-first-departure-of-the-year-team-declines-jalen-hood-schifinos-4m-option-for-next-season.html
