Good News For Lakers: He is Back

Good News For Lakers: He is Back

The Los Angeles Lakers have officially re-signed forward Alex Fudge, marking his return to the team after a stint with the Dallas Mavericks. Fudge’s signing was confirmed by an announcement on the Lakers’ official social media platforms on September 6, 2024. This move comes after the Lakers had initially requested waivers on Fudge earlier in the offseason.

Fudge’s first season in the NBA was a journey through both the G League and the main roster of two prominent teams. After initially joining the Lakers, he was later acquired by the Dallas Mavericks, finishing the season there. During his rookie year, he appeared in six NBA games, averaging 2.5 points per game while shooting 40.0% from the field and a modest 20.0% from beyond the arc. Though his contributions were limited at the NBA level, Fudge’s real impact was seen in the G League, where he played the majority of the season. There, he averaged 7.9 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game while posting an impressive 47.8% shooting percentage from the field across 27 regular season games. However, his shooting from three-point range remained a challenge, as he managed only 21.4% from deep.

Despite limited NBA minutes, Fudge’s season was noteworthy as he was part of teams that made deep postseason runs. According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Fudge gained valuable experience, being part of teams that reached the NBA Finals and participated in the in-season tournament championship during his rookie campaign. However, Fudge himself did not see action in the playoffs, as he was on a two-way contract, which restricted his postseason eligibility with the Mavericks.

The Lakers’ decision to bring Fudge back signals their continued interest in developing the young forward, despite his modest numbers so far. Fudge’s physical attributes and defensive potential are seen as valuable assets, and the Lakers might hope that his time in the G League and the experience gained with playoff-caliber teams will help him elevate his game. His ability to contribute as a role player off the bench will be essential for a Lakers team that remains focused on contending in the competitive Western Conference.

Last season, the Lakers secured the seventh seed in the Western Conference with a solid 47-35 record but were knocked out in the first round of the playoffs by Nikola Jokić and the eventual champion Denver Nuggets. As the team looks to improve on their previous campaign, players like Fudge could play a key role in providing depth to the roster, especially as the Lakers continue to navigate a star-heavy lineup led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

JMG