The Los Angeles Lakers have a few former players who are still in the NBA free agency pool, but their prospects are not all equally promising. While Russell Westbrook is drawing some interest, the situation of three other former Lakers stands out as particularly intriguing and complex.
Cam Reddish: Struggling to Find His NBA Footing
Cam Reddish, a 6'7 wing, is one of the players who last appeared with the Lakers. His time in Los Angeles was marked by a struggle to find consistency and efficiency. Reddish was waived in March 2025, and his stint with the Lakers was brief and forgettable. The team had agreed to trade him to Charlotte before the deadline, but the deal fell through due to Mark Williams' failed physical. This setback further complicated Reddish's NBA journey.
Reddish's performance in the G League and Lithuania last season was underwhelming, with just nine games played in each location. He is now seeking another NBA opportunity, but his chances are uncertain. The 26-year-old's inefficiency, defense, and lack of overall production have likely contributed to his limited opportunities. Despite his lottery pick status, Reddish has yet to secure a deal, and his future in the NBA remains uncertain.
Drew Timme: A Disappointing Lakers Experience
Another player who had a brief and underwhelming stint with the Lakers is Drew Timme. The 6'9 big man was on a two-way contract last season, playing in 27 games with the Lakers. However, his average of just 8.4 minutes per contest and a negative value over replacement player (VORP) over his first 36 career NBA games paint a picture of a player who struggled to find his place in the team's rotation. Timme's scoring prowess in a single 21-point game against the Blazers, praised by LeBron James, stands in stark contrast to his overall forgettable performance.
The Lakers' decision to target Timme, despite his struggles, highlights the team's willingness to take risks. However, the 25-year-old's future in the NBA is uncertain, and he may quickly become a forgotten figure if he doesn't secure a more prominent role.
Spencer Dinwiddie: A Declining NBA Career
Spencer Dinwiddie, a 6'5 guard, is another former Laker who is now seeking a return to the NBA. His situation is more complex, as he hasn't played in the NBA since the 2024-25 season. Dinwiddie's decline in scoring efficiency and defense has made him a less attractive prospect for teams. His time with the Lakers was short-lived, as he averaged just 6.8 points and 2.4 assists in 24.2 minutes per game. The team moved on after a disastrous half-season, and his negative VORP further emphasizes his struggles.
Despite his strong scoring and playmaking abilities in the past, Dinwiddie's NBA days may be numbered. His remarks after not being named among the best free agents in early July have only added to the speculation surrounding his future. With teams handing out training camp and non-guaranteed contracts, Dinwiddie's prospects are uncertain, and his desire to return to the NBA may be met with limited opportunities.
Conclusion: A Complex Free Agency Landscape
The Lakers' free agency landscape is a complex one, with these three players representing different challenges and opportunities. While Cam Reddish and Drew Timme are struggling to find their NBA footing, Spencer Dinwiddie's decline has made his return to the league uncertain. The free agency market's current state, with teams focusing on training camp and non-guaranteed contracts, further complicates the situation for these players.
As the NBA season progresses, these forgotten Lakers will be hoping for a chance to prove their worth. The question remains whether their skills and potential will be recognized by teams, and whether their free agency journey will lead to a successful return to the league.
