Lakers ‘Finally’ Sign Robert Upshaw

Last Friday, the Los Angeles Lakers revealed the names inside their analytics department in an effort to demonstrate transparency and signed undrafted free-agent center Robert Upshaw to a multi-year contract on Monday in a move that’s sure to please Lakers fans.

Upshaw is only guaranteed a small portion ($35,000) of his $525,093 potential earnings for the 2015-16 season. Although the second year increases in value, the $874,636 is non-guaranteed.

The undrafted center averaged 10.9 points and 8.2 rebounds in nearly 25 minutes of action at the University of Washington last season before being dismissed after 19 games for a violation of team rules.

It was the second time in as many seasons Upshaw had been dismissed from his team for a team rules violation. He was dismissed from Fresno State his freshman year after 22 games.

Lakers fans were made aware of his indiscretions, but it was Upshaw’s 4.5 blocks a game that had them pleading with the organization to take a calculated risk.

A significant portion of the fan base was so enamored with Upshaw’s upside they called for him to be drafted in the 2015 NBA Draft despite his alarming baggage. It didn’t happen, because the front office was unwilling to spend even a second round selection on the troubled shot blocker.

Every other NBA franchise felt the same way.

That speaks volumes. When organizations won’t even take a flyer on a guy that could have easily been a first round selection because he’s not worth the headache, that player is trouble.

To his credit, Upshaw has been up front with the organization regarding his issues. It was understood he would have to meet specific off-court goals before making the team was even on the table.

This deal, albeit mostly non-guaranteed, implies that Upshaw held up his end of the deal. He now has a chance to showcase his size and raw ability during Lakers training camp later this month, hopefully with his past behind him.

That being said, Upshaw has his work cut out for him as he is already the 18th player on the Lakers roster heading into camp. Robert Sacre shouldn’t challenge him for a spot, but Tarik Black is another story.

Black is one of the many young players the organization likes. Ultimately, the decision may come down to whether the team wants to keep three centers on its roster.

In five games of summer league action for the Lakers, Upshaw averaged 1.4 points, 2.2 rebounds and 0.8 blocks in 11.5 minutes per game.

Next: Lakers Promote From Within, Reveal Analytics Personnel

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