The Lakers have been struggling mightily this season, but big man Earl Clark has been a bright spot for the 22-26 club. Clark is positioning himself for a considerable raise in his next contract, but the impending free agent says that he would like to stay in Los Angeles, writes Mike Bresnahan of the Los Angeles Times.
“This is my first team that gave me an opportunity. I love the guys here,” the 25-year-old said. “The organization and the style of play fits me. I really want to stay here.“
In eleven starts over the last three weeks, Clark has averaged 10.4 PPG with 8.4 RPG and nearly one block per contest. Clark gave the Lakers 17 points and 10 boards agains the Pistons today and helped lead his team to a 98-97 win despite missing two crucial free throws down the stretch. The Louisville product is making just $1.2MM this season and where ever he winds up next, he figures to see a considerable raise.