Report: Los Angeles Lakers pick up Andrew Bynum's option

The Los Angeles Lakers have picked up Andrew Bynum's option for next season, according to a tweet by the Los Angeles Times' Mike Bresnahan.

[tweet https://twitter.com/Mike_Bresnahan/status/209771659857625088]

The move is hardly surprising, but Bynum's future with the team is still not certain. His name repeatedly has been mentioned in trade rumors over the past few seasons, and his sparring with coach Mike Brown during the season drew attention.

Bynum is often named in connection with Orlando's Dwight Howard, who many expect to hit the trade market this offseason. Los Angeles' other big man, Pau Gasol, has also been mentioned in trade rumors recently.

Bynum had his best season as a professional in 2011-12. He averaged 18.7 points and 11.8 rebounds per game in the regular season and dominated at times. He made his first All-Star game this season and is still only 24 years old.