The Los Angeles Lakers have been one of the most active teams in this summer market.
The franchise led by Rob Pelinka bid farewell to LeBron James and, moments later, revamped nearly half the roster in just over five minutes, confirming the signings of Kessler, Mamukelashvili, Grimes, and today’s centerpiece: Collin Sexton.
The former Chicago Bulls player was recently interviewed by ESPN Los Angeles where he sought to explain the reasons behind his decision to sign with the Lakers.
Sexton agreed to a new deal for two years and $18 million, serving as the natural replacement for veteran Marcus Smart.
“I would say it was the perfect opportunity to join a winning franchise and have the chance to play and make a difference,” Sexton said.
“I feel like I’ve been on other teams where it’s been a lot tougher. Of course the hunger has always been there. But there’s no doubt it’s very hard to win in the NBA. It’s challenging, and every night you face the best. So I think being in this big stage and being able to make a difference every day, and what I can bring to the team, makes me feel I fit in perfectly,” he stressed.
Sexton, who shared the court with Walker Kessler in Utah, has said that his new teammate will bring length and, above all, interior defense for the Lakers’ paint.
It is worth noting that the move for Kessler has been one of the summer’s biggest, sealing a sign-and-trade with the Salt Lake City franchise for four additional years and $130 million.
The famous trip to Slovenia
Luka Dončić decided to invite his teammates to his native Slovenia to run a series of private workouts, while also strengthening the bonds between new and old teammates.
Sexton has sought to highlight Dončić’s leadership efforts in his new role as the “franchise man.”
“I’d say it was one of those trips that helps with the cohesion of all of us. It was about complementing and training together. And the fact that Luka did that shows why he’s such a great leader. And that’s the role he intends to assume throughout the season,” he concluded.
