Lakers: 3 free agents Los Angeles needs to re-sign

Dennis Schroder

Just after the Lakers’ first-round loss, guard Dennis Schroder told reporters he wants to stay in Los Angeles and help the team win a championship in the future.

Los Angeles should make that happen.

Magic Johnson was harsh on the guard after the playoff exit, saying he doesn’t think Schoder is a Laker. He argued he doesn’t bring a “winning mentality” to the team. When an LA legend like Magic says that about you, that’s a problem.

Even so, Schroder could use those comments, and his playoff performance, as a motivational tool. He said as much, vowing to “work my ass off” over the offseason.

He wasn’t good enough in the playoffs. However, Schroder’s impact in the regular season was strong. He was a third scoring option and helped facilitate the offense with the second-highest assist average behind LeBron James.

If James and Davis are healthy, Schroder could be the point guard to help them nab another title.

There’s a chance the rough playoffs could give the Lakers pause about giving him the contract he desires. He reportedly turned down an $84 million extension during the regular season.

For what it’s worth, LA is the odds on favorite to re-sign him.