Lakers Make It Official: Fan Favorite Is Re-Signed

 

He's earned himself the respect of both players and fans, and now he's earned himself a third 10-day contract. The Los Angeles Lakers have officially announced the return of defensive bulldog Stanley Johnson. 

OFFICIAL: The Lakers have re-signed Stanley Johnson to a 10-day contract pic.twitter.com/9ipVXqva6a

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) January 17, 2022

Johnson has started 5 of the 9 games he's been with the Lakers on his first two 10-days, establishing himself as a vital defensive presence, bringing an energy to this team that they've lacked. 

As the first contract he signed with LA was a "hardship" deal, this is officially the second regular 10-day contract, so after this one expires, the Lakers will need to make a decision, and sign him for the remainder of the season if they wish to keep him. Otherwise, he'd become a free agent, able to sign with any other team. 

The Lakers are the 25-year-old's 4th NBA team, after spending time with the Detroit Pistons for this first 3 1/2 years in the league, followed by the New Orleans Pelicans for a very short stint, then the Toronto Raptors for two years. 

Johnson is averaging 5.4 points and 2.3 rebounds with the Lakers, but it's his defensive aggressiveness that's won him significant rotation minutes. 

Photo Credit:  Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports