NBA Rumors: Jordan Hill could return to Los Angeles Lakers if his role is increased

Feb 7, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Jordan Hill (27) during the second quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center. The Lakers defeated the Sixers 112-98. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 7, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Jordan Hill (27) during the second quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center. The Lakers defeated the Sixers 112-98. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 7, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Jordan Hill (27) during the second quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center. The Lakers defeated the Sixers 112-98. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 7, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Jordan Hill (27) during the second quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center. The Lakers defeated the Sixers 112-98. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

Los Angeles Lakers’ big man Jordan Hill has had a very good season.

Hill was nearly traded at the trade deadline, but the Lakers couldn’t get enough in return. The team is interested in keeping Hill and like the role he plays, but Hill wants more playing time and a larger role next season.

Mark Medina of The Los Angeles Daily News has the scoop.

"Yet, it appears clear that Hill has no interest in filling that role long-term. He said “it’s too early to say” on where he would like to play once he becomes an unrestricted free agent this summer. Hill also called the Lakers “the best franchise in the NBA.” Though he did not rule out returning to the Lakers next season, Hill made it clear he has no interest in doing so if it means having a similar role.“Of course not,” Hill said. “Who would?”"

Although he has not made it public, Hill’s dislike for Lakers’ coach Mike D’Antoni seems obvious and if the Lakers do indeed bring D’Antoni back (and they reportedly are leaning towards keeping him), Hill will be moving on.

Hill is averaging 8.8 points and 7.1 rebounds in 19.8 minutes per game.