Coming off a stellar, career-best season, Lakers forward Julius Randle is set to become a restricted free agent this off-season. However, the former seventh overall pick is surrounded by uncertainty regarding his future in LA heading into this summer.
During the team’s exit interviews, Magic Johnson and Rob Pelinka sat down with Randle to go over the entire season and they added some clarity towards how they feel about the big man moving forward.
Julius Randle said Magic and Rob Pelinka congratulated him on his play throughout the season. They told him they’ll "be in contact with my agent" about what comes next.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) April 12, 2018
As previously mentioned, Randle is a restricted free agent so the team will be able to either come to terms on a deal with him themselves or they will have the ability to match any offer he signs with another team this off-season. It would serve the Lakers well to get out in front of things with Randle and make sure he knows he is a priority while they also chase star free agents such as Lebron James and Paul George.
The 23-year old did add that he would like to remain a Laker and is hopeful that both sides can come to an agreement to make that happen.
Randle on upcoming (restricted) free agency and if he wants to stay with the team that drafted him: “I love it here. It’d be amazing to be here, and hopefully both sides can come to something."
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) April 12, 2018
Randle has spent all four years of his career with the organization and with his play this season, the team would be wise to try to bring him back. In just under 27 minutes a night, Randle averaged 16.1 points, eight rebounds and 2.6 assists while shooting 55.8 percent from the floor. He appeared in all 82 games.
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