Jake LaRavia could be the X factor for the Lakers

The Lakers made two high-profile signings this summer in Marcus Smart, a former Defensive Player of the Year, and Deandre Ayton, a former No. 1 overall pick. But it's the under-the-radar signing of Jake LaRavia that might have the most significant long-term impact. 

At 23, LaRavia is still finding his footing in the NBA. Through his first three seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies, he showed flashes of a prototypical 3-and-D player, but didn't get enough opportunities. After being traded to the Sacramento Kings last year, he averaged 19.3 minutes off the bench on a team that was in disarray, having fired its head coach and traded its best player midseason.

All LaRavia needs is a consistent role and the support of a coaching staff. The Lakers are seemingly willing to offer both.

JJ Redick 'very high' on Jake LaRavia

Through the first three days of training camp, LaRavia has been spotted scrimmaging with Lakers starters, a sign that he is likely to be in the rotation when the season tips off on October 21.

Lakers head coach JJ Redick feels that his team lucked out by locking up the 23-year-old to a bargain contract. 

“To get a young player — a young player in free agency for a team that is trying to win a championship — it's an incredible opportunity for myself and our player development department to have him continue to grow," Redick said of LaRavia, via the L.A. Times. "Jake, I'm very high on him. His level of commitment to what we've asked of the guys this offseason has been very high."

LaRavia, who shot an impressive 42.3 percent from three last year, could instantly help a Lakers team that ranked 14th in 3P% (36.4). Mind you, he shot that efficiently without having the luxury of being set up by LeBron James and Luka Doncic, two of the NBA's best playmakers. 

LeBron James, a fan of Jake LaRavia?

James is apparently excited to share the court with LaRavia as well. During his Media Day appearance, James was quick to remind reporters that the team added LaRavia, not just Smart and Ayton.