Why 2020 Lakers Champs' Signings With Other Teams Doesn't Preclude LA Returns

As training camp gets started here soon, the Los Angeles Lakers remain with one open roster spot. They have signaled that they will keep it open to promote flexibility throughout the season, just in case a player they really like becomes available.

In recent years, LA has shown a pattern and willingness to bring back players from the past. And that could still be the case, especially if one they believe can help them becomes available.

Well, two members from the 2020 title team are on non-guaranteed deals with their respective teams entering the year. Guard Danny Green signed with the Philadelphia 76ers and Markieff Morris signed with the Dallas Mavericks.

Danny Green’s one-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers is non-guaranteed and includes several trigger dates, league sources told @MikeAScotto and me.

Opening night: $500,000
November 24: $750,000
December 24: $1.3 million@SixersAdam and @PaulHudrick had non-guarantee first.
— Yossi Gozlan (@YossiGozlan) September 14, 2023

But due to their deals, it doesn’t preclude them possibly returning to LA later in this season.

“The NBA’s league-wide guarantee date is January 10. If he’s not waived by January 7 (in order to clear waivers before Jan. 10), Green will earn his full $3.2MM salary.”

Per Rory Maher of HoopsRumors.com

Between the two, Morris may be more likely to return to the team. The Lakers have a ton of guards, and Green is also older. Morris could bring toughness and shooting to the table, making him a decent option if he were to be let go by the Mavericks.

“Markieff Morris‘ new contract with the Mavericks is a one-year, minimum-salary deal that is partially guaranteed, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, who tweets that Morris received a $200K guarantee.”

Per Luke Adams of HoopsRumors.com

The Dallas Mavericks re-signed Markieff Morris to a partially guaranteed one-year, $3.2 million deal, league sources told @hoopshype. Morris got $200K guaranteed.
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) September 18, 2023

In all likelihood, neither one of them will return to the Lakers, but it is fun to think about. They were both key pieces to the Lakers title run a few years ago, and they remain in the good graces of the Lakers fans.

Are you following us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube or LA Sports Report yet? Join the conversation as we discuss the latest Lakers news and rumors with fans like you!