Montrezl Harrell signed with Lakers because he felt Clippers didn't want him

The Los Angeles Lakers have made a splash in free agency. The signing of Montrezl Harrell, in particular, came as a surprise, especially because the reigning Sixth Man of the Year was expected to remain with the Clippers.

When Harrell was asked if the Clippers wanted him in free agency, he wasn't shy and didn't hold back the truth. 

"I mean, that goes without saying," Harrell said, according to ESPN's Dave McMenamin. “Apparently not if I’m on the other side.

“It’s a business decision. I felt that it was the right decision. I talked to my family and this is where we decided that we wanted to go. Simple as that. I’m definitely gonna be with a team that wanted me and with a group of guys that i feel I’m gonna gravitate to and build chemistry with fast.”

Harrell went on to say that he did want to remain with the Clippers, but the cards just didn't line up for the former second-round pick. 

When diving into the specifics, it's not hard to see why Harrell landed with the Lakers. The 26-year-old is represented by Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, who also represents LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Despite the obvious connection, Harrell says James and Davis didn't have any effect on his decision to move from one Staples Center team to the other. 

The 2019-20 campaign was Harrell's best in the NBA. He turned himself into a consistent offensive threat, averaging 18.6 points and 1.7 assists while shooting 58% from the field.

With the addition of Harrell, the Lakers are primed to defend their 2020 title. If he averages similar numbers to last season, Los Angeles' frontcourt would be receiving a nice boost.