Lakers Rumors & News Recap: Free Agents and a Ballsy Kobe Challenge

Do you think you could take on Kobe Bryant in a game of 1 on 1? Would you bet $50,000 on it? Well that is what Kyrie Irving of Cleveland did yesterday during practice with Team USA. Kyrie was chosen to participate in the USA Men’s basketball program to help TeamUSA prepare for the summer Olympics in London. And after being Rookie of the Year for the 2011-2012 season, he may have a shot. Kobe took the challenge; sooner or later Lakers fans will find out if Kobe holds on to the top dog award. No matter who wins, some lucky charity will get a great donation from a talented player.

Antawn Jamison may be acquired by the Lakers using a veteran’s minimum contract very soon. The Lakers no longer have the means to sign big-name free agents to bolster the bench due to the restrictions in the new CBA and will have to turn to the mini-midlevel ($3 million per season) players and veteran minimum ($1.4 million per season) contracts. Last year Jamison averaged 17.2 points and 6.3 rebounds per game with the Cleveland Cavaliers. At 36, Jamison still feels he can be an asset to a team, however the Lakers are only offering the veteran’s minimum. This may force him to a team, like the Nets, for more money. All in all, Jamison has career averages of 19.5 points and 7.9 rebounds per game over 14 seasons. He remained healthy last season and played in all but one game, proving his tank isn’t empty.

Lakers Nation News

Cavs Kyrie Irving Challenges Lakers Kobe Bryant to 1-on-1 for $50k

Is Antawn Jamison a Good Fit for Lakers?

Former Laker Ramon Sessions Signs with the Charlotte Bobcats

Lakers Kobe Bryant Talks About Time with Team USA Basketball

Lakers Summer League Pre-Game Report: L.A. Takes on Golden State Warriors

Lakers Express Interest in Elton Brand

Kobe Bryant’s First Summer League Game

Lakers Target Antawn Jamison with Veteran’s Minimum

Lakers News

Summer League is Here [Forum Blue and Gold]

The Purple and Gold Butterfly Effect [ESPN]