While still trying to find a way to make a trade with the Brooklyn Nets for Kyrie Irving, the LA Lakers brought in several free agents, including center Thomas Bryant, who spent his rookie season with them in 2017/18.

The namesake of the greatest club legend Kobe, who died in a helicopter crash two years ago, signed a one-year contract, choosing the Lakers over Toronto, Boston, Milwaukee, and Ute, who also wanted him. Bryant was a second-round pick in the 2017 draft, but the Lakers released him just a year later when they brought in LeBron James.

Bryant spent the past four seasons in Washington and averaged 11.0 points and 6.2 rebounds while shooting almost 60% from the field and 36% from three. His career was significantly derailed by a cruciate ligament injury in January 2021, which saw him miss a year and play 27 games last season.

As things currently stand, Bryant should have a starter role in his second term with the Lakers. In addition to him, the Lakers brought Lonnie Walker IV from San Antonio, and Troy Brown Jr. for now. from Chicago, Juan Toscano-Anderson from Golden State, and Damian Jones from Sacramento.