The Los Angeles Lakers held an introductory press conference for offseason acquisitions Deandre Ayton and Jake Laravia.
Former Portland Trail Blazers Center DeAyton praised his La Lakers teammates as he revealed he was excited to be perfect for the iconic purple and gold jersey.
Most of his eyes were in Ayton, but Jake Laravia sneaks a sneak peek at what the Laker nation should expect from him during the 2025-26 NBA season.
Considering that Laravia is essentially an alternative to fan favorite Dorian Finney Smith, the 24-year-old forward is high expectations.
He will get a consistent bench role under manager JJ Redick, similar to what the DFS did last season. But what should fans expect from him, even in these limited minutes?
Well, Laravia gave a solid answer to it during his introduction press conference held at the Lakers training facility.
“I play hard, I pass it all over each night. Being able to control every game, whether you’re making a shot or not, is that it brings that energy.
“…I’ve always been the type of player who never gives up on playing. I love basketball,” Laravia announced.
Playing for the Lakers is a dream for many, but not all NBA players get a shot by making it happen.
Well, Laravia did it this summer, but he signed a two-year deal for just $12 million. However, Laravia’s goal was to play for the Championship Contender, and it was clear that he couldn’t care much about the extra money.
That mentality made him the perfect team player and the master stroke was the main reason the Lakers replaced the DFS with him.
Even Lakers legend James Worthy is excited to sign with the 23-year-old team. Worthy hopes that Laravia will thrive in Luka Doncic.
Laravia comes to the Lakers last season after averaging 6.9 points, 3.9 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game for the Sacramento Kings.