Guard Rajon Rondo said goodbye to the Los Angeles Lakers in an Instagram post Saturday, ending a two-year run in Los Angeles that included an NBA title last season.
Rondo, who had a $2.6 million player option for the 2020-21 season, thanked the entire Lakers organization while also openly wondering “what’s next” for a 15th NBA season.
“Thank you to the Lakers organization, Jeanie and Rob for giving me the opportunity to play for an incredible franchise,” Rondo said in his post. “The professionalism and support from Frank, the coaching staff and support staff is something I’m truly grateful for. With my guys, there’s an amazing brotherhood that only we know. To the fans…thank you for welcoming me with open arms from Day 1 and showing me love. Being apart of #LakeShow was something special and I’m proud we brought it back to you!
“Now, what’s next …”
Rondo, who turns 35 in February, averaged 8.9 points, 6.6 assists and 4.3 rebounds off the bench in 16 postseason games — including a 19-point effort in Game 6 of the NBA Finals as the Lakers beat the Miami Heat to win the NBA championship. In 48 regular-season games, he averaged 7.1 points and 5.0 assists per game.
Since entering the league in 2006 as the 21st overall pick of the Boston Celtics, Rondo has played for six teams, including Dallas, Sacramento, Chicago, New Orleans and the Lakers.
The Lakers on Friday added the reigning Sixth Man of the Year to their upcoming title defense by agreeing to terms with free-agent big man Montrezl Harrell, who spent the past three seasons with the LA Clippers.