Jared Dudley Returns to the Lakers for Another Season

Jared Dudley is returning to the Los Angeles Lakers for at least another season. Dudley was a part of the championship roster in the Bubble and did not seem quite ready to leave the Lakers.

Adrian Wojnarowski reported the deal yesterday night.

Dudley only played in 45 games this season and only had one start. On the season, he averaged 1.5 points per game, 1.2 rebounds per game and 0.6 assists per game. This season will be Dudley’s 15th year in the NBA.

In his prime, Dudley was playing a lot more games per season and was averaging double digit points per game. His overall averages are 7.4 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game.

The fact of the matter is that for Dudley the stats are not where his impact lies. Dudley is essential to the Lakers’ amazing team chemistry. Keeping the core group together from last season, while adding in a little extra talent, is what the Lakers think will be the key to a repeat championship. The bond that the Lakers have with one another contributed to their success. The relationships they build have not only allowed the team to know each other’s strengths and weaknesses but also provides everyone with a level of trust.

The Lakers had that culture last year and the Bubble brought them even closer. Dudley may not be a stand out performer but his behavior off the court will keep the Lakers’ chemistry strong. Dudley is important to a Lakers’ repeat championship and he will help set the tone for the new players that join the team.