BREAKING NEWS: Los Angeles Lakers Power forward Markieff Morris is the odd…

BREAKING NEWS: Los Angeles Lakers Power Forward Markieff Morris the Odd Man Out Amid Roster Shake-Up

June 23, 2025 – Los Angeles, CA — In a move that is sending shockwaves through the NBA community and sparking heated debate among fans and analysts alike, sources close to the Los Angeles Lakers organization have confirmed that veteran power forward Markieff Morris is now considered the “odd man out” in the team’s evolving roster strategy heading into the 2025-26 season.

The 35-year-old forward, who rejoined the Lakers on a veteran minimum deal last offseason, is reportedly not expected to be re-signed or featured in the Lakers’ rotation moving forward. The decision comes in the wake of the team’s aggressive offseason moves aimed at retooling their frontcourt and prioritizing youth and versatility.

A Trusted Veteran, Now on the Fringe

Morris, a key contributor to the Lakers’ 2020 NBA Championship run in the Orlando bubble, returned to the franchise in 2024 after stints with the Miami Heat, Brooklyn Nets, and Dallas Mavericks. Despite his veteran presence and locker room leadership, Morris saw limited playing time in the 2024-25 season, averaging 4.7 points and 2.8 rebounds in just under 13 minutes per game.

While the numbers don’t jump off the page, Morris remained a reliable stretch four, capable of spacing the floor with his perimeter shooting and defending multiple positions. However, the Lakers’ new front office — led by GM Rob Pelinka and recently hired head coach JJ Redick — appears to be steering in a different direction.

Youth Movement Taking Center Stage

Insiders point to the Lakers’ recent draft selections and their interest in younger, more athletic bigs as part of the shift. The team drafted 6’10” forward-center Malik Jennings out of Duke with the 19th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and signed 24-year-old free agent forward Trey Lyles to a two-year deal.

With Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Christian Wood already on the depth chart — and Anthony Davis anchoring the frontcourt — minutes at the power forward spot have become increasingly scarce. Sources say the Lakers are determined to emphasize speed, switchability, and energy — traits that don’t necessarily align with the aging Morris’ current skill set.

“Morris still has value in the league, especially for a playoff contender looking for toughness and experience,” said NBA insider Shams Charania. “But in Los Angeles, the Lakers are pivoting toward a long-term plan that prioritizes developing younger players, and Markieff simply doesn’t fit that blueprint anymore.”

Morris’ Future in Question

Markieff Morris, known for his physical play and intense demeanor, has not publicly commented on the reports. However, those close to the situation suggest that he is exploring opportunities with other contending teams, possibly in the Eastern Conference. The Philadelphia 76ers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Boston Celtics are among the teams rumored to have expressed interest in the 13-year veteran.

It’s not the first time Morris has found himself at a career crossroads. Drafted 13th overall in 2011 by the Phoenix Suns, he’s played for seven teams over his career, often as a key role player. His ability to adapt to various systems and roles could still make him an attractive option off the bench for a team in need of a playoff-tested forward.

Locker Room Impact

Beyond his on-court contributions, Morris has been widely praised for his veteran leadership and willingness to mentor younger players. Teammates like Austin Reaves and Max Christie have spoken highly of Morris’ role in helping them adjust to the pressures of playing in a major market like Los Angeles.

“He’s one of those guys who tells it like it is,” said Reaves in a March interview. “He holds everyone accountable — even the stars — and that kind of voice is huge in a locker room.”

However, with new leadership and a focus on rebuilding around a younger core, the Lakers seem ready to move on.

The Bigger Picture

Markieff’s likely departure is part of a larger trend within the Lakers organization. After failing to advance past the first round of the 2025 playoffs, the franchise is undergoing what many see as a “retooling on the fly” — keeping stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis in place while revamping the supporting cast.

LeBron James, who recently opted in to the final year of his contract, has not weighed in publicly on Morris’ status, though the two share a mutual respect dating back to the 2020 title run.

As the free agency period approaches, all eyes will be on what’s next for both Morris and the Lakers. Will the veteran find a new home and chase another ring? Or could a late twist see him back in purple and gold after all?

For now, one thing is clear — Markieff Morris, the gritty power forward who once played a vital role in L.A.’s championship dreams, is no longer part of the team’s vision for the future.