Lakers Rumors: Conflicting Reports Regarding an Antawn Jamison Signing?

Eric Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer reported via Twitter earlier today that an Antawn Jamison free-agent signing by the Los Angeles Lakers was imminent.

"

A source tells me Antawn Jamison will be a Laker.

— Rick Bonnell (@rick_bonnell) July 16, 2012"

However, a few reports since then have surfaced stating there is mutual interest but a deal has yet to be discussed.

As reported by Marc J. Spears of Y! Sports via Twitter:

"

Free agent Antawn Jamison to talk to @Lakers Tuesday, source said. Vet forward excited to play with Kobe & Nash, but still awaiting offer.

— Marc J. Spears (@SpearsNBAYahoo) July 16, 2012"

Furthermore, David McMenamin of ESPNLA tweeted the following information:

"

Just talked to Mitch Kupchak about Antawn Jamison. He acknowledged interest but said: "We're not about to do anything. I would know."

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) July 17, 2012"

"

I told Mitch that he could just sing his UNC school song to confirm they got the Tarheel in Jamison if he preferred. He stayed silent.

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) July 17, 2012"

While this contrasts earlier reports that signaled the deal was all but done, there is still a vast amount of hope as Jamison has made it clear that he wants to play alongside Kobe Bryant and Steve Nash.

Last season, Jamison averaged 17.2 points 6.3 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game. While Jamison was not exactly an efficient offensive player, his high-octane offense would provide a much-needed spark to a Laker bench that ranked last in scoring. And, with Nash now in the fold, it would not be surprising to see Jamison's offensive efficiency take an upward hike.

When the deal gets done, it will be a major boost to the Lakers' championship hopes. But until then, don't get your hopes up too high; crazier things have happened this offseason.

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