The Los Angeles Lakers have officially released point guard Tyler Ennis just prior to the start of free agency.
In a move that many were expecting this offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers have decided to waive point guard Tyler Ennis. With his contract becoming guaranteed in a few days, this move made all the sense in the world for the Lakers.
Last season, Ennis was a huge disappointment for the Lakers, as despite getting some extended playing time due to injuries, he really never showed much promise. In 12.6 minutes per game last season, Ennis averaged 4.1 points and 1.9 assists per game.
With not much to play for at the end of the season, Ennis was able to bolster his stats a bit. However, when the Lakers needed him with Lonzo out earlier in the season with the playoffs still being a possibility, he didn’t get the job done.
Due to his struggles, the Lakers used Alex Caruso quite a bit on a two-way deal. Caruso outplayed Ennis when given the chance and hopped him in the rotation.
OFFICIAL: Lakers waive Tyler Ennis https://t.co/oEdgz7XkIS
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) June 29, 2018
Waiving Ennis helps the Lakers keep some more money, as they pursue both Kawhi Leonard via a trade and likely some other stars in free agency. While adding some star power is the first priority, upgrading the backup point guard spot will be important for the Lakers as well.
Lonzo Ball should have a firm grasp on the starting job next season, but having a good backup point guard is very important. While Caruso will likely be a candidate for the spot, the Lakers should be looking to add a veteran as well. In a best-case scenario, Caruso would likely be best-suited as an end of the bench player rather than the primary backup point guard.
Next: Complete 2018 NBA Draft first round grades
After struggling with the Lakers, Ennis’ future is certainly unclear. Maybe a change of scenery will help, but Ennis will need to make his mark on a team soon, as he likely won’t have too many chances left.