Jared Dudley became the latest player to leave the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason, but it wasn’t for a spot on another team’s 15-man roster.
Dudley left L.A. to join the Dallas Mavericks as an assistant coach, ending his 14-season run in the NBA.
The 36-year-old veteran spent the last two seasons in L.A. on minimum deals. Though he played in just 12 games this season — an MCL tear in his knee set him back — he had a pivotal role with his experience and leadership on the sidelines.
Since his playing days with the Lakers seemed over, there was a possibility Dudley would join L.A. in some capacity to keep his presence around the club.
Instead, he’ll team with Jason Kidd, who was an assistant with the Lakers the last two seasons before becoming Dallas’ head coach this summer.
The loss was felt by LeBron James, who is close friends with Dudley.
James took to Twitter to share his thoughts on the news:
With Dudley officially out of the picture for one of L.A.’s remaining roster spots; the Lakers are searching for another point guard and wing to add to the squad.
