Lakers Likely To Sign Stanley Johnson To New 10-Day Deal

The Lakers are expected to sign forward Stanley Johnson to a 10-day contract, according to Dave McMenamin of ESPN.

Johnson, 25, is 6-foot-6 was already under hardship contract in LA, but that deal expired Monday. He made a fairly strong impression, McMenamin noted, averaging 6.8 points in five appearances.

“There’s no salary difference if Johnson signs two 10-day contracts and a rest of the season contract in late January vs. signing a rest of the season on Thursday,” wrote Bobby Marks of ESPN. “The 10-day option is all about roster flexibility for the next few weeks.”

Johnson also signed a 10-day hardship deal with the Bulls on Dec. 8, but entered COVID protocols before appearing in a game. 

He appeared in 61 games with the Raptors last season, averaging 4.4 points and 2.5 rebounds. He had been playing in the G League with the South Bay Lakers earlier this year after signing with the club Nov. 15.

He was originally drafted by the Pistons with the No. 8 overall pick in 2015 and has made a name for himself with strong perimeter defense. He has also played for the Pelicans.