Lakers Lock Up Derrick Caracter
Thanks to a strong showing during summer league play, the Lakers have opted to sign both rookies drafted in the second round. First Devin Ebanks inked a two-year deal and now Derrick Caracter has done the same.
Caracter, like Ebanks, will only collect on his contract if he makes the team. With both rookies in the fold the Lakers now have 14 players on the roster.
Caracter’s long journey to the NBA could find the former high school phenom as a member of a team questing for a third straight championship. Despite some questions about his attitude and work ethic, Caracter’s raw ability was enough to merit Mitch Kupchak selecting the New Jersey native with the 58th pick in the draft.
Minutes will be hard to come by for either rookie should they make the final cut. Given Phil Jackson’s track record with regards to trusting rookies, neither Ebanks nor Caracter should expect much more than front row seats in Staples this season. Caracter might fare a little better shot at making the roster than Ebanks based on the position he plays.