NBA Rumors: Lakers Brace For Caldwell-Pope Spike In Salary, Exit Possible

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope was often criticized for his presence on the Los Angeles Lakers squad, someone who hardly made a difference. But KCP proved doubters wrong when he played a pivotal role in the recently concluded NBA Finals. He hit the clutch shots as well as other things that made him a vital player to keep.

Unfortunately, Caldwell-Pope is following the lead of other players who have an option remaining in their deal. He will test the market to get a pay raise. But even if he is dangled something bigger than the $8.5 million salary he was supposed to get with the Lakers this 2020-21 season, the Lakers can match that because they hold a Bird's Rights on the 27-year-old guard according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.

In the regular NBA season, Caldwell-Pope averaged 9.3 points, 2.1 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 25.5 minutes of action per Basketball-Reference. He bumped those numbers a bit with added minutes, particularly in point production with 10.7 points in 21 games, per NBA.com. Though these numbers pale when compared to his 2015-16 numbers, KCP did not need to exert himself. All he needed to do was to play defense and be at the right place at the right time.

In all, Caldwell-Pope showed his importance, especially in the big games. Recall that this is the same player that was often linked to trade talk. Most questioned his place in the Lakers roster, seeing him as dead-weight at times. Now, the NBA champion has proven doubters wrong.

Several teams could use someone like Caldwell-Pope. The Atlanta Hawks are an interesting destination, one that could see KCP tandem with Trae Young. The possibilities are endless and the 6-foot-6 guard could even get higher pay for it.

Whichever NBA team does offer KCP a deal will all boil down to the numbers of the contract. The Lakers could match any offer for as long as it is reasonable and within budget. Los Angeles would love to have him back but there are boundaries. The purple and gold are trying to make ends meet with the limited budget they have. If the figures don't match, expect the Lakers to skim the market for another player who can fit in with their budget.