Los Angeles Lakers: 4 players who are playing for their next contract

By Jason Reed | Apr 30, 2021

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 28: Montrezl Harrell #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers in action against the Washington Wizards during the second half at Capital One Arena on April 28, 2021 in Washington, DC. 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 Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers /

1. Dennis Schroder

It is well-documented by now that Dennis Schroder turned down a four-year, $84 million extension offer from the Los Angeles Lakers. At the time, I was not shy about how much I did not like that offer and that anything more than that would be a significant overpay.

Schroder turned down the big money wanting more and has balled out since, seemingly proving himself right in the process. However, the reason Schroder is balling out is that LeBron James is still out of action.

The truth with Schroder is that he is the best version of himself when he has a high usage rate and he can be the star on the court. And as I have said before, if Dennis Schroder has a usage rate in the 30s then you probably do not have yourself a great basketball team.

Schroder’s usage rate has skyrocketed without LeBron James and it is not a coincidence. It will be interesting to see what level he is playing at when LeBron returns and if he can keep up the solid pay to convince a suitor to dish out a big contract.

With so many other free agents to handle it feels like Schroder’s days with the Lakers are limited, but we shall see.

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