NBA Rumors: Another Ex-Laker Hoping To Return But Unlikely In LA

It has almost been two years since NBA fans saw Lance Stephenson. He last suited up for the Los Angeles Lakers and it appears a return to the league is in his mind.

According to Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports, the 6-foot-6 swingman will be holding private workouts with several teams. The list includes the Milwaukee Bucks, Brooklyn Nets, Denver Nuggets and the Philadelphia 76ers.

With no team taking him after his stint with the Lakers, Stephenson took his act to the Chinese Basketball Association and played for the Liaoning Flying Leopards.

However, it was his credible performance for the Flying Leopards at the 2019 East Asia Super League Terrific 12 that may be best remembered. He helped his team down the Seoul SK Knights to win the EASL title. The 30-year-old was adjudged the tournament’s Most Valuable Player.

In his last NBA stint with the Lakers, Stephenson played in 68 games averaging 7.2 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 16.5 minutes of action. He had his best years with the Indiana Pacers.

In 6 seasons with Indiana, he normed 9.1 points, 4.6 rebounds and 3.1 assists in 25.4 minutes of action. His production may not be that eye-popping but Stephenson is more known for his defensive talent.

The private workouts with the above-mentioned teams hold no promise although adding Stephenson as another reserve could aid teams in need of defense and someone who can raise the energy.

Stephenson is likely to be offered a minimum deal by the teams who are looking to fill their rosters with veteran and affordable players. It remains to be seen if other teams will also take interest in the Brooklyn native.

The Nets would be perfect for Stephenson considering it is his hometown. Add to the fact that Brooklyn does not have the financial flexibility, adding him on a minimum deal could make sense.