FREE AGENCY DEAL SEALED: Lakers Land 11-Year Veteran Clint Capela on 2-Year, $22 Million Contract
The Los Angeles Lakers have made a major splash in NBA free agency by landing a player they’ve long had their eyes on. The franchise officially announced the signing of 11-year veteran center Clint Capela, agreeing to a two-year, $22 million deal that’s already being hailed as one of the most strategic pickups of the offseason.
A Dream Target Finally Joins the Purple and Gold
After years of speculation and trade rumors, the Lakers have finally secured Clint Capela, a defensive powerhouse and elite rim-runner who has consistently ranked among the league’s top rebounders and shot blockers. His arrival in Los Angeles fills a crucial gap in the Lakers’ frontcourt and provides much-needed depth and athleticism at the center position.
Capela’s combination of size, agility, and experience makes him a perfect fit alongside the team’s current roster, especially in fast-paced, transition-heavy scenarios.
An ‘Excellent Lob Threat’ to Pair with Lakers Playmakers
One of Capela’s most valuable assets is his elite lob-catching ability, which has made him a consistent pick-and-roll threat throughout his career. Playing alongside elite playmakers like LeBron James and Austin Reaves, Capela is expected to thrive in the Lakers’ offensive system.
Coaches and analysts alike have pointed out that his ability to finish above the rim, combined with his rebounding and rim protection, makes him a “low-maintenance, high-impact” addition to the lineup.
Defensive Anchor and Rebounding Machine
Defensively, Capela brings a much-needed presence in the paint. With his shot-blocking instincts, mobility, and ability to guard the pick-and-roll, he’ll be tasked with anchoring a Lakers defense that struggled with consistency last season.
Capela averaged 11.5 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game last season, making him one of only a handful of players in the league to average a double-double while maintaining high efficiency around the rim.
Front Office Moves with Championship Intent
The signing signals a clear message from the Lakers’ front office: They’re going all-in for another title run. With LeBron James extending his stay and Anthony Davis still in his prime, adding a reliable veteran center like Capela ensures the team remains competitive in the stacked Western Conference.
Lakers GM Rob Pelinka commented, “Clint brings toughness, elite rebounding, and veteran leadership—everything we need as we push for another championship banner.”
What’s Next for the Lakers?
With Capela locked in for two seasons, the Lakers will now look to build chemistry and address any remaining gaps in shooting and perimeter defense. Capela’s presence could also allow Anthony Davis to shift to his preferred power forward role more consistently, potentially making the Lakers’ frontcourt one of the most formidable in the league.
Welcome to Los Angeles, Clint Capela. Lakers Nation is ready.
