Jake LaRavia is Ready to Reach Full Potential with LA
Jake LaRavia Officially Introduced by Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers officially introduced new signing Jake LaRavia in a press conference this week. LaRavia, a 6’7″ forward, signed a two-year, $12 million contract after a short stint with the Sacramento Kings. He becomes the first free-agent acquisition for the Lakers this offseason.
LaRavia Expected to Fill Key Rotation Role
With veteran forward Dorian Finney-Smith heading to the Houston Rockets, LaRavia steps into a key rotation opportunity. Known for his versatility and shooting touch, the 23-year-old is expected to complement the Lakers’ young core and potentially carve out a more consistent role—especially alongside rising star Luka Dončić.
“I’m pretty versatile on both sides of the ball,” added LaRavia. “Being able to space the floor, playing off guys like LeBron, Luka and Austin. And then defensively just being able to take on that toughest matchup is something that I’ve been growing on as my years have gone on.…
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) July 8, 2025
Strong Shooting and Upside from Last Season
Last season, LaRavia was traded from the Memphis Grizzlies to the Kings at the deadline. In 19 games with Sacramento, he averaged 6.0 points in 19 minutes per game, shooting 43.8% from the field and 38.5% from three-point range.
A Hometown Return for the Pasadena Native
While still developing his place in the league, LaRavia sees this move to Los Angeles as a major step forward.
“I was trying to decide which team was the best fit—where I could see my role expanding and my potential as a player continue to grow,” LaRavia said during his introductory press conference, via Lakers reporter Mike Trudell.
The signing also marks a homecoming for LaRavia, who grew up in Pasadena. “My dad is super excited. He grew up out here; Pasadena is where me and all my brothers were born,” LaRavia said. “My dad was a big fan of Magic growing up, so when he got the news, he was on the verge of tears. Don’t tell him I said that.”
Looking Ahead to the 2025–26 NBA Season
With strong shooting numbers and a fresh opportunity in L.A., Jake LaRavia enters the 2025–26 season with both pressure and promise. His development could prove valuable as the Lakers aim to balance playoff ambitions with long-term growth.
