Former NBA point guard Darren Collison was in attendance for the Lakers’ 121-111 loss against the Rockets’ Thursday night adding to the speculation that Los Angeles is attempting to sign him before another contender does. In the third quarter, the former Pacers’ player was shown on the big screen sitting near Lakers’ owner Jeanie Buss.
“I’m just here to watch the game,” Collison told USA Today as he was leaving Staples Center. The Lakers’ were reportedly active prior to the NBA Trade deadline on Thursday and analysts thought third-year player Kyle Kuzma would be moved, but the Lakers were unable to make a deal. Now they look to add someone who is an experienced veteran to provide depth for the bench.
The 32-year-old’s retirement announcement came out of nowhere last June. The 10-year veteran has always been a productive point guard with career averages of 12.5 points, 2.7 rebounds and 5 assists per game. The last two seasons he’s steadily improved his three point percentage shooting 43%. Last year he started 76 games and also averaged a career-high six assists.
Collison joined The Undefeated for an interview with ESPN’s Marc Spears last June to discuss his reasons for retiring. “While I still love basketball, I know there is something more important, which is my family and my faith. I am one of the Jehovah’s Witnesses and my faith means everything to me. I receive so much joy from volunteering to help others and participate in a worldwide ministry. The joy I feel is unmatched,” Collison said.
When asked if Collison would be a good fit after Thursday’s loss, LeBron James responded, “I don’t know. I don’t like talking fantasy basketball. I’m never one to talk fantasy basketball. We’ll see what happens. But I don’t really have too much to comment on that one.”
Los Angeles has 15 players on their roster and would have to waive someone to make room for Collison but there’s no question they could use him. ESPN NBA analyst Matt Barnes told the network it’s a “50-50” chance the Lakers sign him.
