To nobody’s surprise, the Lakers waived third-string point guard Chris Duhon this afternoon in an effort to create as much cap space as possible.
Duhon’s salary for the 2013-14 season was for $3.75 million, but only $1.5 million was guaranteed. Mike Trudell of TWC SportsNet first reported the news this afternoon:
The Lakers waived backup PG Chris Duhon today, according to GM Mitch Kupchak.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) June 30, 2013
Duhon was acquired by the Lakers last off-season in the Dwight Howard trade from Orlando, but was pressed into action a lot more than anybody expected due to the high volume of injuries to the backcourt.
Last season, Duhon averaged 2.9 points and 2.9 assists in only 46 games as he’s the latest player to leave this off-season. Earlier this week, the Lakers announced that Darius Morris and Devin Ebanks are unrestricted free agents after not extending a qualifying offer.
It remains to be seen if Duhon will latch on with another team as he can provide veteran leadership and help tutor a young point guard.
Here is the Lakers official press release announcing the transaction:
LAKERS WAIVE CHRIS DUHON
EL SEGUNDO – The Los Angeles Lakers have waived guard Chris Duhon, it was announced today by General Manager Mitch Kupchak.
In 46 games (9 starts) last season with the Lakers, Duhon averaged 2.9 points, 1.5 rebounds and 2.9 assists in 17.8 minutes while recording three double-figure scoring games, 10-plus assists twice and one double-double.