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Jake LaRavia and Alex Caruso.

The countdown ended, and NBA free agency for the 2025–26 season has officially begun. The Los Angeles Lakers waited a few minutes before making their move, and while everyone was expecting a center as their first signing, they surprised fans by reaching an agreement with a different player—a two-year, $12 million deal.

With Luka Dončić joining the team midseason last year, the Lakers quickly became strong title contenders. But… the 2025 NBA Playoffs brought major disappointment as they were eliminated in the first round, managing to win only a single game.

Rob Pelinka, general manager of the Lakers, knew the roster needed upgrades. In the NBA Draft, they made two trades with the Chicago Bulls and the Minnesota Timberwolves to select small forward Adou Thiero, who stands 6’8” (2.03 meters) tall.

And the moves didn’t stop there… Before announcing their first free agent signing, the LeBron James-led team exercised their option to keep shooting guard Jordan Goodwin and extended a qualifying offer to center Christian Koloko, hoping he accepts and remains with the franchise.

The Lakers’ first signing in free agency inked a $12 million contract.

LeBron and the Lakers’ new signing. (Photo: Getty Images)

“Free agent forward Jake LaRavia has agreed to a two-year, $12 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, sources told ESPN. LaRavia had a strong finish to the season after joining the Sacramento Kings last year,” reported journalist Shams Charania.

Jake LaRavia’s Stats Ahead of the 2025–26 NBA Season with the Los Angeles Lakers

Jake LaRavia has spent three seasons in the NBA, averaging 6.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 37.1 percent shooting from three-point range per game. The 23-year-old small forward, who stands 2.01 meters (6’7”) tall, had his best season in 2023–24, averaging 10.8 points per game. He recently played 19 games with the Sacramento Kings, posting an impressive 38.5% shooting from beyond the arc.