Armel Traore, the versatile forward who recently concluded his tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers organization, has officially signed a new deal with LDLC ASVEL, a prominent club based in France. This move marks a significant return to his home country for the talented Frenchman, signaling a new chapter in his evolving professional basketball career.
Traore, a European U20 Champion in 2023, brings a compelling blend of power, physicality, and versatility to both ends of the court. His journey through professional basketball has seen him play for various clubs, including Mets, Blois, and Manresa, before his brief but notable foray into the NBA system with the Lakers.
Despite going undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft, Traore secured a two-way contract with the Los Angeles Lakers in early July 2024, offering him an opportunity to develop within their system. However, the majority of his time was spent honing his skills with the Lakers’ G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, where he gained valuable professional experience.
His exposure to NBA action was limited, as he participated in only nine games for the Los Angeles Lakers’ main squad. During these appearances, Traore averaged 1.6 points per game across 7.4 minutes of play. He also contributed 1.7 rebounds, 0.1 assists, and 0.4 steals per game, shooting 31.6 percent from the field, showcasing glimpses of his potential.
Before his recent NBA stint, Traore had already established a significant presence in European basketball. His upcoming move to LDLC ASVEL marks his fifth professional season playing overseas. He commenced his professional journey with Monaco in the prestigious EuroLeague, a testament to his early promise and skill on the international stage.
Most recently, prior to joining the Lakers, Traore was a key player for Baxi Manresa in Spain’s highly competitive Liga Endesa, one of Europe’s top domestic leagues. His consistent performance in such challenging environments prepared him for the rigor of the NBA, even if his time there was short-lived.
His return to French basketball with LDLC ASVEL is expected to provide Armel Traore with an elevated role and increased responsibility, allowing him to further develop his game and contribute significantly to a EuroLeague-contending team. This strategic career move highlights his commitment to thriving in the European professional circuit, leveraging his unique athletic attributes and defensive prowess.
The signing with LDLC ASVEL is more than just a club change; it represents a homecoming and an opportunity for Traore to solidify his standing as a formidable force in European basketball. Fans in France will eagerly anticipate his contributions as he aims to make a significant impact with his new team, building upon his diverse playing experiences both domestically and internationally.
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