LA Lakers legend James Worthy has shared his views on the newest recruit of the team Jake LaRavia, who he believes will benefit from playing with a key player on the Purple and Gold.
The team signed Jake LaRavia on a two-year $12 million deal once free agency opened.
He comes to the LA Lakers after stints with the Memphis Grizzlies and Sacramento Kings, both places where he was able to showcase his brilliance from three-point range.
LaRavia shot 42% from three-point range last season and adds much-needed depth in the frontcourt for the team.
James Worthy expressed his happiness on the move as he believes the 23-year-old could benefit from playing alongside some good players around him.
The Lakers have one of the most stacked offensive trios of LeBron James, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves playing for them.
JJ Redick is well aware of the trio’s ability to score over 20 points on a nightly basis, but they are also sensational creators for their teammates.
However, Worthy believes playing alongside a ‘magnet’ like Doncic could really be helpful for a shooter like LaRavia.
Speaking on the Lake Show podcast, the former Laker said: “I like him. Coming to play for JJ Redick, who encourages you to take the three when you open.
“Playing with the biggest magnet in the game, Luka, eight out of 10 plays he gets into the paint, there are four players that are collapsing around him, he’s going to be able to find those guys if you can move to the level and get in eyesight.”
Worthy also pointed out players like James and Reaves could also help facilitate shots for LaRavia, who is comfortable knocking shots down.
“I think he’ll find some shots. LeBron is another guy that breaks down the defence, Austin Reaves, he can break down the defence.
“So if you’re a savvy guy that knows how to drop down to the level of the ball, and be in sight, you are going to benefit from that,” said the three-time champion.
LaRavia brings floor spacing to the Lakers, which will help the team significantly with the trio of James, Doncic and Reaves.
He came into the NBA as one of the best shooters in the draft class of 2022.
The player shot 38% from three-point range in his final year at Wake Forest, while also being reliable on the defensive end of the floor.
Last season, the Lakers lacked the size to compete against Minnesota Timberwolves, LaRavia could be a player that helps them there.
Rob Pelinka’s first call when free agency opened was to Jake LaRavia, per @DanWoikeSports
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 1, 2025
“According to league sources, LaRavia was the Lakers’ first call when free agency officially opened at 3 p.m. Pacific Time on Monday. In his conversation with Rob Pelinka and Lakers coach… pic.twitter.com/hX1f21ByfM
He can play center in a small-ball lineup and also play as a forward if the Lakers succeed in their pursuit of a center.
Deandre Ayton has been rumoured to be a player the Lakers are interested in. If the team secures a deal to sign him, LaRavia could come off the bench to play some valuable minutes.
He is definitely not a starter, but Brian Windhorst reported that several teams were interested in acquiring his services, which shows how valuable he is in the market.
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