DONE DEAL: Los Angeles Lakers Sign Rising Star Cooper Flagg to 4-Year, $50 Million Rookie Contract
Los Angeles, CA – In what’s already being called a franchise-shaping moment, the Los Angeles Lakers have officially signed Cooper Flagg, the most hyped basketball prospect of his generation, to a 4-year rookie contract worth $50 million. The deal marks a major win for the Lakers’ future — adding youth, explosiveness, and star potential to a team steeped in legacy and championship ambition.
Who Is Cooper Flagg?
At just 18 years old, Cooper Flagg has already become a household name among basketball fans and scouts. Hailing from Newport, Maine, and emerging as the top prospect out of Duke, Flagg was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Standing at 6’9” with a wingspan, athleticism, and skill set that’s drawn comparisons to Kevin Durant and Jayson Tatum, Flagg is known for his versatility on both ends of the court.
He dominated at the high school and college levels, showing maturity, high basketball IQ, and leadership rarely seen in players his age. From highlight-reel blocks to step-back threes, Flagg does it all — and he’s only just getting started.
Lakers Go All In on the Future
The Lakers’ front office, led by GM Rob Pelinka, wasted no time in securing Flagg’s services, finalizing a lucrative rookie deal that includes:
•$50 million over 4 years
•Performance-based incentives tied to All-Rookie honors, All-Star selection, and Rookie of the Year contention
•Team option in the 4th year, allowing flexibility and future cap space
“Cooper is a generational talent,” Pelinka said at the press conference. “He embodies everything the Lakers stand for — talent, drive, charisma, and the will to win.”
Cooper Flagg’s First Words as a Laker
Wearing his new purple and gold jersey, Flagg addressed the media with calm confidence during his unveiling at Crypto.com Arena.
“It’s surreal. To be part of this franchise, where so many legends played — it’s an honor,” Flagg said. “I’m ready to work. I’m not here for the spotlight, I’m here to win.”
He also shared his excitement about possibly playing alongside LeBron James (if he returns), or learning from the Lakers’ coaching staff and veteran core.
NBA World Reacts: The Lakers Might’ve Just Found Their Next Superstar
Fans, analysts, and even NBA stars were buzzing after the announcement:
•Stephen A. Smith: “This kid could be the future of the league — and now he’s in Hollywood? Showbiz just got a new star.”
•Magic Johnson: “I love this move. The next Lakers dynasty might’ve just begun.”
•Duke head coach Jon Scheyer: “They’re getting a humble kid with a killer instinct. He’s going to thrive.”
What’s Next for Flagg and the Lakers?
Flagg is expected to play a major role in the Summer League, where fans will get their first real taste of his talent against NBA-level competition. Depending on how training camp and preseason unfold, he could see starter minutes early in the season, especially if the Lakers look to transition to a youth-led lineup.
With aging stars, shifting rosters, and intense pressure to return to championship glory, the Lakers’ gamble on Cooper Flagg could be the start of a new chapter — one built on raw talent, potential greatness, and the hunger to make history.
#CooperFlagg #LakersFuture #NBARookie #HollywoodHoops #LakeShow #NBA2025
