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UNC Basketball: Wayne Ellington explains why he joined Lakers

By Richard Adkins

May 8, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Wayne Ellington (8) shoots the ball against Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) during the third quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
May 8, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Wayne Ellington (8) shoots the ball against Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) during the third quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Former UNC Basketball player Wayne Ellington explains his reasoning on why he took his talents to Los Angeles.

In early August former North Carolina standout Wayne Ellington  agreed to a deal to return to Los Angeles and sign with the Lakers.. The 11-year veteran played for the Los Angeles Lakers back in 2014, but this time will be much different playing alongside Lebron James and Anthony Davis.

Ellington had his fair share of options this off-season but elected to lace up for the historic team, which left one question…

Why Los Angeles?

Ellington has paved himself a nice career with having the best shooting splits of his career last season. The six-foot-five guard averaged 9.6 points on 44.1% from the field and 42.2% from behind the arch. The Lakers struggled last season when shooting 3s, finishing 21st in the league in percentage with 35.5%. Ellington is a perfect fit for the Lakers’ needs, and he expressed that as his reasoning for joining the lake show during a guest spot on the Noble and Roosh show.

“It felt like a perfect fit, perfect timing. I felt like what I bring to the table was needed with the roster that was being put together”.

Ellington acknowledged he did have interest from the Brooklyn Nets, however, he ultimately felt like the Lakers were “too good of a situation” to pass up. When it came to acquiring minutes on the loaded but aged Lakers team Ellington also had a good perspective on why that’s an afterthought.

“We have one of the older rosters, so I think guys being able to be mature about that. We all understand everybody will not be able to play 30 minutes a game. It’s going to be some sacrifices that need to be made. I think that’s part of the understanding. Also understanding that with an older roster, guys aren’t going to be able to play every single game. I think you will see sometimes guys got to get some rest in and that’s when the next man mentality comes into play”

This will be the first time Ellington will be on a legit championship-contending team. So, there’s a likely chance another Tar Heel wins an NBA championship this season.

Related Story. UNC Basketball: Tar Heels visit four-star 2023 target. light

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