3 biggest free-agent mistakes in Los Angeles Lakers history

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 11: Julius Randle #30 of the Los Angeles Lakers on the bench in the second half at Staples Center on April 11, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by John McCoy/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Julius Randle /

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2. Signing Luol Deng

While the Lakers only got one season from Timofey Mozgov, at least they were able to get back any sort of assets and cap relief by trading him to the Nets. However, the same cannot be said for Luol Deng.

Along with Mozgov, Luol Deng also signed a four-year contract in the summer of 2016. His contract was worth $72 million. Deng was a favorite of head coach Tom Thibodeau during their days together with the Bulls and had earned a reputation as one of the league’s better 3-and-D wings.

He spent time with the Cavs and Heat before ultimately deciding to sign his big contract with the Lakers. In his first season with the Lakers, Deng averaged 7.6 points and 5.3 rebounds per game while the team struggled to win games.

After just one game the following season, Deng and the Lakers agreed to a buyout. The Lakers wanted to have additional cap space to spend and Luol Deng wanted a fresh start. As a result of the buyout, the Lakers still had to pay Deng through the 2021-22 season.

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