Forward Jake LaRavia, the Los Angeles Lakers’ first free-agent addition last summer, says he is prepared to handle whatever responsibilities the team needs as injuries reshape the rotation midway through the 2025-26 season.
LaRavia, 24, signed a two-year, $12 million contract in July that includes a player option for 2026-27. Initially coming off the bench, he has entered the starting lineup in recent weeks after Rui Hachimura was sidelined. The additional minutes have translated into improved production, particularly on defense and the defensive glass.
“I’m a man of many hats,” LaRavia told Spectrum SportsNet. “Some nights I take five shots like I did against New Orleans; other nights I need to be more aggressive. I’m going to play hard and control my effort, and the rest depends on the game.”
The Lakers center their offense on Luka Doncic and LeBron James, but LaRavia’s ability to defend wings, rebound and stretch the floor has become increasingly valuable as the club manages multiple absences. His recent upswing follows a cold shooting spell late in 2025; he attributed the turnaround to steady work and the coaching staff’s confidence.
With roughly half the regular season remaining, LaRavia’s performance could prompt him to decline next year’s player option, potentially sending him back to free agency. For now, he remains focused on filling gaps created by the Lakers’ injuries and maintaining the versatility that earned him a starting spot.
Source: Lakers Nation
