LOS ANGELES _ The Lakers waived Andrew Bogut on Saturday, four days before his contract would have been guaranteed. Bogut was originally signed to a partially guaranteed deal on Sept. 19.
Bogut played in 24 games for the Lakers, with five starts, averaging 1.5 points (.680 FG percent), 3.3 rebounds and nine minutes.
"He uses his voice a lot more than any other guy on the basketball floor," Lakers forward Brandon Ingram said. "Whether it was different positions to put us in, whether it was away from the court telling the young guys that we need to talk on an off the basketball court, he was always a good access to help us play basketball the right way."
Although his playing time was scarce, the Lakers liked Bogut's veteran knowledge and the experience he had playing for a championship team. Coach Luke Walton said Bogut was the team's best communicator on defense.
"We're gonna miss him, obviously," Walton said. "He was an ultimate professional all season, up to date, great with the young guys. Never complained. Came in, worked every single day. We'll definitely miss him around here in the facility. Talking and just kind of leading in the way he leads. Hopefully I'm sure other teams out there that know what he's capable of, he'll end up in a good situation for himself."
Bogut wanted the release so he could pursue an opportunity with a playoff team. That was part of his goal during free agency, but he signed with the Lakers as openings dried up.
The Lakers have been using Julius Randle as their backup center to starter Brook Lopez. Waiving Bogut also could open opportunities for Ivica Zubac, who has been mostly out of the rotation.
The Lakers will look to sign a player to a 10-day contract to fill the opening left by Bogut's departure.
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