Julius Randle is the Lakers' highest-profile draft pick since Andrew Bynum, but it could be a while until fans see him suit up in purple and gold.
The Lakers are holding off on signing Randle to his rookie contract. Mike Bresnahan of the Los Angeles Times explains:
When he will play, though, is a good question. The Lakers begin summer league Friday in Las Vegas, but Randle will not be on the court until he signs with them. The team is waiting because it can save about $500,000 if his signing is delayed, money that could be used toward free agents such as Anthony and Pau Gasol.
It probably won't hinder Randle's development if he misses out on a few weeks of summer league action. He is essentially assured of making the team as the No. 7 pick in the draft. In fact, it might benefit him to rest his foot as he only just recently was cleared to play for the summer.
To the rookie's credit, he appears to be handling the situation in a respectful manner as the team looks for the veteran talent that can quickly bring them back to relevancy.
"We'll see," he said, per Bresnahan. "It's kind of really out of my hands right now. I'm ready to play whenever."
Randle can't play until he gets a contract, but there is one Laker without a guaranteed contract who will be suiting up to play for his job.
Kendall Marshall played in 45 games for the Lakers last season, averaging 8.0 points and 8.8 assists per game. Despite his excellent court vision, something that would come in handy if the Lakers signed a big scorer like Carmelo Anthony, he will play on the team's summer league squad.
The Lakers h...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
