Lakers Secure Lithuanian Guard Augustas Marčiulionis on Exhibit 10 Deal: What It Means for the Team
The Los Angeles Lakers are adding depth to their roster as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season. According to recent reports, the team is finalizing an Exhibit 10 contract with Augustas Marčiulionis, a talented guard hailing from Lithuania. This move signals the Lakers' continued focus on developing young talent and exploring potential roster additions beyond their initial plans.
Who is Augustas Marčiulionis?
Marčiulionis, 23, is a 6'1" point guard known for his impressive ball-handling skills, sharp shooting, and high basketball IQ. He's been honing his craft in Europe, most recently playing for Žalgiris Kaunas in Lithuania's LKL and the EuroCup. His ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and others has drawn attention from NBA scouts, and the Lakers see potential in his skillset.
What is an Exhibit 10 Contract?
An Exhibit 10 contract is a non-guaranteed, minimum-salary deal typically offered to players invited to training camp. It's a crucial opportunity for players to prove themselves and potentially earn a spot on the regular-season roster. Exhibit 10 contracts come with a bonus structure. If a player signs a regular NBA contract with the team within 60 days of the start of the regular season, they are eligible to receive a bonus ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 depending on how many games they played while on the Exhibit 10 contract. If they are waived and later sign with the Lakers' G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, they're also eligible for a bonus if they reach certain performance thresholds.
Why the Lakers Signed Marčiulionis
Several factors likely influenced the Lakers' decision to sign Marčiulionis. First, it’s a low-risk move allowing them to evaluate a promising international player. Second, the Lakers are always looking for guards who can contribute offensively and run the team's offense. Marčiulionis' experience in high-level European competition suggests he's prepared for the challenges of the NBA. Finally, adding him to the South Bay Lakers roster provides valuable depth and a potential developmental asset for the future.
Impact on the Lakers Roster
While it's unlikely Marčiulionis will immediately become a key contributor, he provides valuable competition in training camp and adds another option for the Lakers' coaching staff to consider. His presence on the South Bay Lakers will also be beneficial for their development program. The Lakers have a history of finding gems through Exhibit 10 contracts, and Marčiulionis will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of players like Gabriel Agbo and others who have made the leap to the NBA roster.
Looking Ahead
The next few weeks will be crucial for Marčiulionis as he aims to impress the Lakers coaching staff and earn a place on the final roster. Training camp and preseason games will provide him with the opportunity to showcase his skills and demonstrate his value to the team. Lakers fans will be watching closely to see if this young Lithuanian guard can make a lasting impression.