Radmanovic Makes It Official

The Lakers formally announced the signing of Vladimir Radmanovic, or, as they hope to refer to him in coming years, the next Toni Kukoc.

Radmanovic is the shooter they wanted in Phil Jackson’s triangle offense, a lanky 6-foot-10 forward who officially became part of the Lakers on Wednesday, the first day teams could sign free agents after an 11-day moratorium.

Radmanovic, 25, brings a smooth stroke -- he holds a Lakers’ opponent record with eight three-pointers in a January 2005 game with Seattle -- and provides another big body for the frontcourt, although he is not a strong rebounder or defender.

He has career averages of 10.1 points and 38.1% shooting from three-point range, but only 4.6 rebounds.

“Certainly we appreciate his ability to shoot the basketball,” Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak said. “With the guys that we have on this team that can create shots for themselves and create opportunities for other players, that’s going to be a key component for what he brings to this team.

“At a very young age, we’re hopeful that he continues to improve in the other areas of his game as well.”

Radmanovic accepted the Lakers’ full mid-level exception of five years and $31.7 million, leaving behind an identical offer from the Clippers. Radmanovic wanted more playing time, and the Clippers couldn’t guarantee it with Corey Maggette in the fold.

“The Lakers were more specific with what they want from me and how I’m going to fit in with the team,” Radmanovic said.

The Lakers also considered offering their mid-level exception to Utah forward Matt Harpring and Minnesota guard Marcus Banks, but came to an agreement in principle with Radmanovic within 2 1/2 hours of the beginning of the free-agent period July 1.

With Radmanovic, the Lakers are looking at a possible starting lineup of Kobe Bryant and Smush Parker in the backcourt, Radmanovic and Lamar Odom at forward, and Kwame Brown or Chris Mihm at center.

The Lakers also could go with a larger lineup of Bryant and Odom in the backcourt, Mihm and Radmanovic at forward, and Brown at center.

Seeking defensive help in the backcourt, the Lakers also signed free-agent Shammond Williams, a 6-1 guard who has played with six NBA teams and most recently played in Spain.

Williams, 31, snapped up the Lakers’ biannual exception and will receive a one-year contract for $1.75 million.

The Lakers hope Williams can defend such smaller guards as Steve Nash and Allen Iverson.

Williams, 31, has career averages of 6.1 points and 2.5 assists. He last played in the NBA in the 2003-04 season.