The oft troubled Derrick Caracter, formerly of the University of Louisville and most recently a post player from the University of Texas El Paso, showed enough promise in the NBA Summer League the champion Lakers gave their second round pick a two year contract, with  at least the first year, or a portion of it, guaranteed. While not typical for second round pick (only first round draft picks are assured guaranteed contracts) it is certainly not unheard of and Caracter is certainly not the only second round pick to earn a roster spot this summer. 

What makes his contract different is how the Lakers baked in an incentive for him to commit to handle the one area that caused the club the most concern.  Going into the draft, the knock on Caracter was his work ethic, desire and commitment to conditioning, all of which combined to get him shipped out of Louisville by Rick Pitino.  The Lakers signed Caracter to a $473,000 contract for this year, but if he weighs 275 pounds or less on September 10, the whole contract becomes guaranteed.  If Derrick is not willing to do the work and get in shape for the money, no amount of coaching magic by the Zen master will do the trick.  Here's hoping Derrick's been using Nutrisystem; he was always a fan favorite in the Derby City and deserves to have some good things happen for him.  HT.: JSK