Los Angeles Lakers Sign Grizzlies’ Sharpshooter in Bid to Bolster Perimeter Offense…see more…
Los Angeles, CA — July 7, 2025 — In a move that signals a clear shift toward bolstering their perimeter game, the Los Angeles Lakers have announced the signing of Memphis Grizzlies’ three-point specialist, Desmond Bane, a career 41.2% shooter from beyond the arc. The signing is a major offseason development for the Lakers, who have struggled with consistent outside shooting in recent seasons.
The 27-year-old guard brings both shooting efficiency and playoff experience to a Lakers roster eager to return to championship contention. Bane’s arrival is seen as a pivotal piece in reshaping the team’s offensive dynamics under head coach JJ Redick, who himself was one of the NBA’s most respected shooters during his playing career.
A Strategic Move for the Lakers
The Lakers’ front office, led by general manager Rob Pelinka, has been vocal about the team’s need to stretch the floor and improve scoring versatility. With LeBron James entering what could be his final NBA season, and Anthony Davis still anchoring the frontcourt, adding a reliable perimeter threat became a top priority.
“We knew coming into this offseason that shooting had to be addressed,” Pelinka said at a press conference following the announcement. “Desmond is one of the best in the league at what he does. He spaces the floor, competes on both ends, and brings a level of toughness we value in L.A.”
Sources close to the organization say Bane’s contract is a four-year deal worth approximately $110 million. The move required significant cap maneuvering, including the decision not to re-sign several role players from last season and potentially exploring trade scenarios involving current rotation pieces.
Bane’s Rise and Role in Memphis
Drafted 30th overall in 2020 out of TCU, Desmond Bane quickly made a name for himself in Memphis as one of the most efficient and fearless shooters in the league. He averaged 20.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game last season while shooting 39.5% from three on nearly 8 attempts per game.
More than just a specialist, Bane developed into a key leader in Memphis, often stepping up during Ja Morant’s absences. His ability to shoot off the dribble, playmaking improvement, and high motor made him a fan favorite and a cornerstone of the Grizzlies’ offensive strategy.
Despite his success in Memphis, the franchise has been in transition. With Morant’s off-court issues, injuries, and inconsistent results, the Grizzlies are reportedly looking to retool around younger talent and open up financial flexibility. According to reports, the Lakers aggressively pursued Bane once it became clear Memphis was open to dealing.
How He Fits in L.A.
On the court, Bane is expected to slot into the starting backcourt alongside point guard D’Angelo Russell or possibly a yet-to-be-acquired floor general, depending on how the remainder of free agency unfolds. His presence will create more space for James and Davis to operate inside and reduce the offensive burden on their aging superstar.
“Bane’s gravity as a shooter is real,” said Coach Redick. “He’s a guy defenses have to respect from 30 feet out. That opens things up for everyone else and aligns perfectly with how we want to play — with pace, spacing, and unselfishness.”
Defensively, Bane adds value as well. At 6’5” and 215 pounds, he’s a strong, physical guard capable of defending multiple positions. While not elite defensively, his intensity and work ethic help make him a net positive on that end of the floor.
Team sources say LeBron James was “highly supportive” of the signing and believes Bane can be the kind of difference-maker the Lakers lacked during stretches of the 2024–25 season, particularly during their brief playoff run, which ended in the first round against the Denver Nuggets.
Reaction Around the League
The signing has been met with a mix of praise and surprise around the NBA. While Bane had long been seen as a foundational piece in Memphis, several analysts believed his price tag would be too steep for the Lakers to accommodate under the cap. However, Pelinka and the front office found creative ways to open space, including declining team options and exploring sign-and-trade frameworks.
“This is a huge win for L.A.,” said ESPN analyst Brian Windhorst. “They didn’t just add a shooter; they added one of the best two-way guards available. If LeBron and AD stay healthy, this is the kind of move that could vault them back into serious contention.”
Grizzlies fans, meanwhile, expressed disappointment at losing a player who had grown into a homegrown star. Memphis general manager Zach Kleiman released a statement thanking Bane for his contributions and acknowledging the difficult decision to let him walk in favor of long-term planning.
What’s Next for the Lakers?
Even with Bane now in the fold, the Lakers’ offseason is far from over. The team is reportedly still pursuing additional depth at the center and wing positions. There is also speculation about whether the Lakers might look to package Russell or Rui Hachimura in a trade to acquire another ball-handler or defensive anchor.
“This move is the start, not the finish,” Pelinka said. “We’re committed to building a roster that maximizes the window we have with this core.”
As for Bane, he expressed excitement about joining one of the league’s most storied franchises. “Playing in L.A., wearing purple and gold — it’s surreal,” he said during an introductory interview. “I’m ready to get to work, win games, and help bring another championship to this city.”
With a lethal shooter now on board, a motivated LeBron, and a talented core around them, the Lakers are signaling that
they intend to go all-in for the 2025–26 season.
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