The Los Angeles Lakers emerged as winners in the race for the services of veteran center Andrew Bogut, signing him to a one-year deal. Shams Charania of The Vertical reported that Bogut’s agent, David Bauman, told him that the 7-foot center reached a deal with the Lakers worth $2.3 million. Bogut last suited up for the Cleveland Cavaliers but his stint lasted just less than one minute after he fractured his tibia. The Cavaliers then released Bogut, who will be ready by training camp for the 2017-18 season. If fully healthy, Bogut will provide the Lakers with a veteran presence in their young frontline that includes Brook Lopez, Julius Randle, and Larry Nance Jr.
Last season, Bogut played 26 games for the Dallas Mavericks, averaging 3.0 points, 8.4 rebounds, 1.0 blocks and 1.9 assists. After that, he was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers for Nerlens Noel. Days after, he was waived by the 76ers, allowing him to sign with the Cleveland Cavaliers. In the 2014-15 season, Bogut helped the Golden State Warriors win an NBA title. During that season, he averaged 6.3 points, 8.1 boards and 1.7 blocks in 67 games.
Lakers’ signing came as a surprise
The Lakers’ move was a surprise since they were not included in the list of teams interested in Bogut’s services. The San Antonio Spurs, Boston Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks and the Utah Jazz reportedly tried to sign Bogut, who earlier aired his intention to join a championship contender.
A first overall pick by the Bucks in 2005, Bogut averaged 10.0 points, 8.9 boards and 1.6 blocks in 671 career games with the Bucks, Warriors, Mavericks and the Cavaliers. In his career, Bogut is known as an outstanding defender, making it to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2015.
Nuggets ink Mason Plumlee to deal
According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, the Denver Nuggets signed big man Mason Plumlee to a three-year deal worth $41 million.
The Nuggets acquired Plumlee from the Portland Trail Blazers ahead of the trade deadline to boost their playoff chances. However, the Nuggets came up short with a 40-42 mark but they got a glimpse of what Plumlee can contribute to the team. Last season, the 27-year-old Plumlee averaged 10.4 points and 7.5 boards in 81 games for the Blazers and Nuggets.
With Plumlee set to return, the Nuggets have Nikola Jokic, Gary Harris, Jamal Murray and Emmanuel Mudiay as their core. The Nuggets also signed veteran power forward Paul Millsap to a three-year, $90 million contract.
