Now that the Lakers have officially retained both Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell in NBA free agency, they are slated to have 13 players under contract for the 2023-24 season. The maximum teams can carry in-season is 15 (plus three two-way players), but from the sound of things, the Lakers may stay one player under that limit to start the year.
Dave McMenamin of ESPN reported on Saturday morning that the Lakers want to sign one more center, but in keeping with tradition for general manager Rob Pelinka, the team will stop at 14 players, leaving one roster spot open for an uneven midseason trade or possible buyout addition (while also saving some money in the process, it must be noted):
Austin Reaves’ pact gives the Lakers 13 players under contract for next season.