In a surprising move, the Los Angeles Lakers have signed center Trey Jemison to a two-way contract while waiving Quincy Olivari, a decision that has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. At 6’11” and weighing 260 pounds, Jemison brings considerable size and physicality to a Lakers roster in need of a more aggressive presence in the paint.
Jemison, 25, has previous NBA experience, having played 41 games over the past two seasons with the Washington Wizards, Memphis Grizzlies, and New Orleans Pelicans. Throughout his career, he has averaged five points, 4.5 rebounds, and nearly one block per game in approximately 18 minutes of play. His shooting percentage stands at an impressive 53.6%, but he has yet to attempt a three-pointer, indicating a focus on interior play rather than perimeter shooting.
The decision to waive Olivari, who had been excelling in the G League with averages of 17.2 points, 4.4 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game, has left many questioning the rationale behind the Lakers’ move. Olivari’s statistics suggest he was one of the team’s most promising two-way players, and speculation suggests he may have requested his release to pursue opportunities with a team that could offer him more playing time at the NBA level.
Analysts note that while Jemison’s defensive s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s are still developing, he has demonstrated a strong ability to rebound, leading the Memphis Grizzlies in contested rebound percentage last season. His physical style of play could complement the Lakers’ current frontline, which includes Anthony Davis, who leads the team in contested rebounds. The Lakers are currently struggling with offensive rebounding, ranking in the bottom ten in the league, and Jemison’s addition could help address this issue.
However, some fans and experts express confusion over the decision to part ways with Olivari instead of another player on the roster. With the roster’s current structure, it seemed more logical to waive a frontcourt player rather than a promising backcourt talent. The Lakers may have insights into team dynamics or future trades that have yet to be revealed, which could clarify this unexpected choice.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the roster changes, the Lakers’ acquisition of Jemison presents an opportunity for the team to bolster its physicality and rebounding capabilities. As the season progresses, fans will be watching closely to see how Jemison integrates into the Lakers’ system and whether his presence can help the team improve its performance on the boards.
In summary, the Lakers’ decision to sign Trey Jemison while waiving Quincy Olivari has sparked discussions about team strategy and player potential. While Jemison’s physical attributes and rebounding prowess could be beneficial, the move raises questions about the future of the team’s lineup and their approach to player development. As the situation unfolds, both the Lakers and their supporters will be eager to see how these changes impact their playoff aspirations.