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LeBron James Expresses His Approval to Lakers Re-signing KCP

Published 11/22/2020, 12:39 AM EST

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USA Today via Reuters

The 2019-20 season brought some macro-challenges with an unexpected halt, followed by a testing Bubble experience. LeBron James’ Los Angeles Lakers came out on top under the pressure of adversity.

Today, they are well aware that the upcoming season will bring other significant challenges, with more teams coming back stronger after a prolific off-season.

Hence, the LA-based franchise has gone through many swaps with the influx of players like Dennis Schroder, Wesley Matthews, and Montrezl Harrell. Also, they’ve parted ways with the likes of Danny Green, Rajon Rondo, and Dwight Howard.

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However, the latest development is a reason for players and fans to breathe a sigh of relief; for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has re-signed with the Lakers.

LeBron James expressed his happiness at the prospect of KCP’s retention

The Akron Hammer posted on Twitter to welcome KCP back into the squad. His one-word minimalist reaction gained a lot of traction, and the Lakers’ fans basked in elation. 

Perhaps the 3-year $40 million deal will ensure that KCP stays around till Bron remains with the Lakers.

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KCP was in troubled waters for the initial quarter of the 2019-20 season where his performances were dwindling. However, he came back strong in the Orlando Bubble and received complete support from Head Coach Frank Vogel.

He started in all the 22 games that the Lakers played in their postseason championship run. The 27-YO star averaged 10.7 points in the NBA Playoffs 2020 with a three-point shooting accuracy of 37.8%.

One can only assume that he will still hold the key to the Lakers’ starting lineup once the 2020-21 season kicks off.

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Why was it in the Lakers’ interest to have him re-sign?

His performance from behind the arc has been phenomenal since the year he started with the Lakers. His 3P% last year remained 38.5% and he also showed great ability to defend at the perimeter. He can play defense against the likes of Kawhi Leonard and also finish fast breaks alongside the star duo.

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His inconsistency with shooting has definitely been an issue, but that is something that the 6’5″ guard can work on. He has played for over 25 minutes per game in the past season and that can be taken higher, given he has a decent fitness level that can take some burden off an aging LeBron. 

Whether this move will pay dividends to the Lakers is something that remains to be seen. What are your immediate views on this? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by:

Sourabh Singh

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Sourabh Singh is an NBA sports analyst for EssentiallySports, who has been working with the site since May 2020. Prior to this, he functioned as Managing Editor at WittyFeed, followed by a stint at Decathlon. The Sports Management graduate leads an active lifestyle, veering to the mountains for off-trail adventures.
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