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Lakers avoided a nightmare by skipping a reunion with their former champion

Bringing back Kentavious Caldwell-Pope could have been a tough hit for the Los Angeles Lakers.

Los Angeles Lakers v Sacramento Kings | Ezra Shaw/GettyImages

During the 2025 offseason, the Orlando Magic were looking to unload a hefty Kentavious Caldwell-Pope contract that was proving to be worth well short of its value. The Los Angeles Lakers, who had multiple expiring contracts to give, could have made a run at their former champion.

The fit made sense too. Even after a disappointing shooting campaign with the Magic in 2024-25, KCP still had the benefit of the doubt on that end.