NBA Rumors: Lakers Possibly One Step Closer To Signing Rondo; Thomas Comeback Glooms

Rajon Rondo has secured a buyout with the Memphis Grizzlies, something that pundits and some NBA teams have been awaiting. But there is perhaps no other team more elated over the development than the Los Angeles Lakers, reports have suggested.

The 35-year-old guard will clear waivers Monday after agreeing to a contract buyout with Memphis, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski and The Athletic's Shams Charania reported, citing unnamed sources.

Once that happens, Rondo, who played for the Lakers from 2018 to 2020, is expected to be signed by the team to fill one of its final available roster spots, according to the NBA insiders. International Business Times could not independently verify this information.

Rondo won the second NBA title of his career with the Lakers in 2020. His veteran leadership is something the Lakers could put to good use, considering the point guard position is a spot they have struggled to address since last season.

The Lakers can only offer Rondo a veteran’s minimum as they are already over the luxury tax line. Even at the age of 35, there is no denying that Rondo would be another big acquisition in an already stacked roster.

Already manning the Lakers backcourt are Russell Westbrook, Kendrick Nunn, Kent Bazemore, Talen Horton-Tucker, Malik Monk and Wayne Ellington. Adding Rondo may be an odd choice, especially if the playing time factor is considered.

Regardless, the chance to win another title with the Lakers could make sense for Rondo. At this point, the four-time All-Star may want one more NBA ring before putting an end to his storied pro basketball career.

Assuming the Lakers and Rondo seal the reunion, it potentially shuts the door on other players who have been trying to land a spot on the team.

Isaiah Thomas, Darren Collison and Mike James got workouts with the Lakers in the hopes of grabbing one of the remaining open roster spots.

There was also talk about Jeremy Lamb of the Indiana Pacers. However, a deal for Lamb can only progress if the Pacers agree to a buyout first.

Of those names, Thomas was singled out as the one who may have been hit the hardest. Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic mentioned that the 32-year-old guard appeared close to being signed, but the Rondo buyout may have dampened the two-time All-Star’s chances.