Ramon Sessions ‘definitely’ wants to return to Lakers
*Audio of Ramon Sessions exit interview
After talking with Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak on Tuesday at his exit interview, Ramon Sessions knows the Lakers would like to keep him.
“”It was clear leaving the meeting they wanted me back,” Sessions said. “It was 100% clear.”
Sessions said he “definitely” wants to return to the Lakers and described his experience with the team as a “dream come true.” But he said he doesn’t know how he’s going to proceed regarding his player option worth $4.55 million next season. Though The Times’ Mike Bresnahan reported Sessions was expected to opt out of the option in hopes of getting a long-term deal, Sessions was noncommital on the issue Tuesday.
“I definitely hope to be here,” said Sessions, who has until June 20 to inform the Lakers of his decision. “Hopefully everything works out ... we’ll just see what happens.”
Even though both parties showed interest, how Sessions proceeds regarding his player option could dictate his future with the team. Though Kupchak had anticipated signing Sessions to a longer-term deal, the Lakers also had anticipated he would provide a larger presence at point guard.
Those early glimpses of Sessions instantly bolstering the Lakers’ offense soon dialed down as he adjusted to playing at a slower pace. Sessions averaged only 6.8 points on 35.3% shooting and largely struggled defending Russell Westbrook in the Western Conference semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. That’s why it shouldn’t be a surprise about Sessions revelation both Kupchak and Brown suggested that he improve his outside shooting during the offseason.
Sessions, who has played for four NBA teams in five seasons, said long-term security is something he’d “consider,” but is “not everything I’m weighing on.”
“I want to win,” he said.
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