NBA insider Marc Stein reveals the Los Angeles Lakers never offered Cedi Osman a training camp spot, raising questions about the team’s roster strategies for the upcoming season.
Bollywood Fever: In a surprising revelation, NBA insider Marc Stein has reported that the Los Angeles Lakers never extended a training camp offer to former Cleveland Cavaliers forward Cedi Osman.
This contradicts previous reports suggesting Osman had declined an invitation from the Lakers to join European club Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens.
The news sheds new light on the Lakers’ offseason strategy and future personnel decisions as they approach the new NBA season.
Osman, who briefly played alongside LeBron James during the 2017-18 season with the Cavaliers, was initially seen as a potential addition to the Lakers’ roster.
His three-point shooting prowess, reflected by a 39% average last season, seemed like a perfect fit for the Lakers, who struggled with perimeter shooting in the playoffs.
However, Stein clarified the situation, stating, “It’s been reported in Europe…but sources close to the situation told The Stein Line that no such offer was extended.”
This revelation points to other factors driving the Lakers’ roster decisions, particularly their current 15-player limit, which leaves little room for further signings unless trades are explored.
Lakers vice president Rob Pelinka has maintained a cautious approach during the offseason, especially due to the restrictions imposed by the new Collective Bargaining Agreement, which enforces stricter luxury tax penalties.
This has likely limited the Lakers’ flexibility in pursuing free agents like Osman and shifted their focus toward potential trade opportunities.
The Lakers also appear to be concentrating on improving their perimeter defense, a key area where Osman has struggled throughout his career.
This could explain why the Lakers opted not to pursue him, as they aim to solidify their defense rather than add offensive depth.
Meanwhile, Cedi Osman’s decision to join Panathinaikos signals an interesting chapter in his career. Despite averaging 6.8 points per game last season, his transition to European basketball might be a stepping stone for a potential NBA return in the 2024-25 season.
His performance overseas will undoubtedly be monitored closely as teams evaluate whether he can regain the form that once made him an exciting prospect.
The Lakers’ strategies and Osman’s future now stand as intriguing storylines as the new season approaches, with both sides looking to define their paths moving forward.
Also Read Latest Sports News, Caitlin Clark’s Historic Rookie Season Elevates Indiana Fever On and Off the Court
Nebraska Quarterback Dylan Raiola Draws Inspiration from Tim Tebow, Not Patrick Mahomes
Alabama Freshman Ryan Williams Proves He’s “The Truth” with Game-Changing Play
Kylian Mbappe Agreed to Join Liverpool in 2022 but PSG Rejected £168M Bid
