Cooper Signs 4-Year Laker Contract for More Than $600,000 Annually

Michael Cooper finally signed his contract Saturday afternoon, two days into the Lakers’ training camp, and the veteran guard joined the team for its evening practice at the College of the Desert.

Cooper, 30, signed a four-year guaranteed contract reportedly worth more than $600,000 annually. A fifth season, which contains a health clause, is not guaranteed.

“I’ve got my running legs ready, and I can’t wait to get out there,” Cooper said before signing. “I (was) tired of waiting. I’m getting all the wisecracks from the other guys . . . (The contract) is one that supplies me with a future and provides security for my family.”

Since training camp began, Cooper had anxiously watched from the sidelines as the Lakers went through twice-daily practices. Saturday morning, Cooper was staked out in front of a pay telephone outside the gym, awaiting a call from Fred Slaughter, his agent, confirming the terms and language of the contract.

The addition of Cooper gives the Lakers 15 players in camp. Kurt Rambis (strained hip) and Petur Gudmundsson (back spasms) missed Saturday’s practices.