Lakers take team option to bring back Jodie Meeks for 2013-14

Jodie Meeks will return to the Lakers next season.

Last summer, Meeks signed a two-year deal worth $3.05 million. The second season, at $1.55 million, became guaranteed on Wednesday when the Lakers exercised their team option.

“Jodie is not only a gifted three-point shooter who helps us space the floor on the offensive end, but he is also a very active and underrated player defensively who continues to work on and improve all aspects of his game,� said General Manager Kupchak. “He was an important member of our team last year and we look forward to having him back for the 2013-14 season.�

After a slow start, Meeks was able to contribute under Coach Mike D’Antoni until a high-ankle sprain knocked him out of the team’s first-round series against the San Antonio Spurs.

Meeks played in 78 games, averaging 7.9 points and 2.2 rebounds. He shot 38.7% from the field, 35.7% from behind the arc and 89.6% from the line.

While Meeks isn’t a lock-down defender, he gave D’Antoni a consistent effort -- providing the team some necessary hustle and foot-speed.

Keeping Meeks, at his inexpensive salary (relatively speaking), was not a difficult decision for Kupchak and the Lakers.

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Email Eric Pincus at [email protected] and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.