Los Angeles Lakers’ 5 Worst Roster Moves Since Phil Jackson Left

3. The Signing of Timofey Mozgov

Details: In the first unrestricted free agent deal of 2016, the Lakers signed Timofey Mozgov to a four-year, $65 million deal.

As many of you know, I wasn’t a big fan of the Lakers’ decision to sign Timofey Mozgov this offseason. I understand that salaries were inflated due to the new TV deal and rising salary cap, but there was no need to hand an average-at-best player such a massive deal.

Mozgov has enjoyed his fair share of success in the NBA, but he’s far from a proven starter. Through six seasons, he only has two that I would consider standout performances–and one of those isn’t last year.

By the time the 2015-16 season had ended, Mozgov had essentially become irrelevant for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The Lakers were obviously desperate for a prominent presence in the paint when they signed the Russia native. However, with players like Tarik Black and Zubac now under contract for 2016-17, the deal for Mozgov is looking worse and worse.

I understand they paid more than we’re used to because of the NBA’s evolving financial situation. However, with how much they spent, they easily could have gotten more for their money elsewhere.

The Lakers will end up regretting this decision in the not-so-distance future.

Next: 2. Gambling On An Immature Big Man