Julius Randle is officially an unrestricted free agent after the Los Angeles Lakers renounce his restricted rights.
The Los Angeles Lakers are not done making moves. Less than 24 hours after signing LeBron James, the Lakers have reportedly renounced the rights of power forward Julius Randle, making him an unrestricted free agent.
This is big for a number of reasons. First, it frees up cap space. They now have $13.8 million to spend on the market. They began filling out their roster around LeBron last night with players like Lance Stephenson and JaVale McGee. This gives them more room to add another veteran or two.
Second, it allows them to make a trade without having to give up as much salary.
Third, they can still work out a sign-and-trade with Randle and another team.
By renouncing his rights, the Lakers essentially created more flexibility for themselves in the offseason. It could be the precursor to a Kawhi Leonard trade or a DeMarcus Cousins signing. Or you know, they can give $9 million to Rajon Rondo.
Now that Randle is an unrestricted free agent, he’s free to sign with any team of his choice without fear that the Lakers will match the offer. There have been reports that the Brooklyn Nets are interested in reuniting him with D’Angelo Russell. The Dallas Mavericks were reportedly considering sending him an offer sheet as Randle is front Dallas. The Phoenix Suns have the cap space to sign him, pairing him with their young core.
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At 23 years old, Randle will be highly coveted by any team looking for a versatile power forward with room to grow.