Lakers, Bryant Agree to Terms

The Lakers and Kobe Bryant, having originally planned to wait another month before signing a contract to avoid the red tape that comes will employing a minor, instead went ahead Thursday and signed a three-year package worth $3.5 million.

After consulting with various officials, the sides determined that Bryant can do the deal now and then re-sign the contract after he turns 18 on Aug. 23.

Bryant, a 6-foot-6 swingman making the jump from high school to the pros, was drafted by the Charlotte Hornets at No. 13 and then traded to the Lakers for Vlade Divac. In four summer league games, he averaged 25 points and 5.3 rebounds.

The signing means the Lakers have all nine players under contract. The final three roster spots will be filled by free agents who come in at the league minimum of $247,500.