Jonathan Holmes to Lakers: Latest Contract Details, Analysis and Reaction

The Los Angeles Lakers added some depth and size Thursday when they added undrafted free-agent forward Jonathan Holmes.

Baxter Holmes of ESPN.com noted that the Lakers signed the former Texas Longhorn to a “multiyear contract” and that “it’s expected that he’ll at least have a shot to make the team at training camp.”

Holmes checks in at 6’9” and played four seasons for Texas. While he averaged 9.2 points and 5.9 rebounds per game over his collegiate career, he was named All-Big 12 Second Team and team MVP as a junior behind 12.8 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.3 blocks a night.

He also played five games with the Boston Celtics in Las Vegas Summer League and demonstrated an ability to shoot from behind the three-point line and rebound.    

At his best, Holmes is a matchup problem who can power through smaller defenders on the post or stretch the defense and shoot over the top if given too much space. He is also a solid rebounder and will help the Lakers protect the rim with his shot-blocking prowess he showed in the Big 12. 

Mike Schmitz of DraftExpress was in favor of the signing:

While Holmes should help the offense, his rim protection figures to be critical in Los Angeles. Opponents shot 60.1 percent against the Lakers last season from within five feet, which was fifth-worst in the league, per NBA.com.

If the Lakers plan on competing in the loaded Western Conference this year with a healthy Kobe Bryant alongside D’Angelo Russell and Julius Randle, they will need better interior defense.

Holmes should help them in that department.