5 Los Angeles Lakers With The Most To Prove In 2016-17

C Tarik Black

This offseason, the Lakers signed Tarik Black to a noteworthy deal, handing him a two-year, $12.85 million contract. He’s been working hard as a quality backup center in Los Angeles for the last two years, but now appears to be facing a do-or-die situation heading into 2016-17.

The deal he signed in June included a team option in Year 2, which essentially means Black has one year to prove he belongs.

Although earning starts may be difficult, Black will be expected to serve as the primary backup center behind Timofey Mozgov in 2016-17.

He’ll get a push from rookie Ivica Zubac, but his experience and connection with head coach Luke Walton should give him an initial leg up for minutes.

Speaking of Walton, he’s clearly on Black’s side. The two spent time together during their days at the University of Memphis, and the coach promised him a “fair shot at minutes” this season (via Los Angeles Daily News’ Mark Medina).

He’s proven he’s capable of contributing, but can he elevate his game even more this upcoming season?

We’ll see what happens, but this is make-or-break for Black. Can he force the Lakers to pick up his second year, or will he give them reason to move on next offseason?

Next: An Overpaid, Average Starting Center