The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly on track to sign veteran guard De’Anthony Melton, according to Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer. The 27-year-old is recovering from a torn ACL but remains a coveted defensive-minded backcourt option.
“I haven’t heard of anything new. We’re still expecting him to eventually sign with the Lakers,” Fischer shared, indicating the deal could materialize soon.
Melton began last season with the Golden State Warriors on a one-year, $12.8 million contract before an early-season knee injury derailed his campaign. He appeared in just six games, averaging 10.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.8 assists.
Surgery to repair his partially torn ACL was announced on November 20, ending his year prematurely. Despite that, Brooklyn acquired him in a December trade with Golden State, packaging him with Reece Beekman and picks for Dennis Schroder.
Over his seven-year NBA career, Melton has built a reputation as a tough perimeter defender and capable shooter. He owns career averages of 9.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.4 steals per game while shooting nearly 37% from three-point range.
His best statistical season came in 2021–22 with Memphis, when he posted 10.8 points per game while playing in 73 contests and contributing heavily on both ends.
For the Lakers, Melton projects as a versatile addition to the backcourt rotation, able to guard multiple positions and stretch the floor when healthy. His playoff experience, with 27 postseason appearances, also adds value to a team looking to deepen its roster.
