Lakers ink C Bynum to extension

Oct 30, 2008 - 6:18 PM LOS ANGELES (Ticker) -- The Los Angeles Lakers apparently have secured their future in the middle by signing center Andrew Bynum to a four-year contract worth a reported $58 million, according to a published report Thursday.

The Los Angeles Times reported the first three years of the deal are worth nearly $42 million, with a team option for a fourth year at $16 million. The contract would keep Bynum, who could have been a restricted free agent next summer, in Los Angeles through the 2012-13 season.

An emerging player who will earn $2.8 million this season, Bynum averaged 13.1 points and 10.2 rebounds in 35 games last season. He was sidelined from mid-January through the remainder of the season after a bone bruise and dislocation of the left kneecap.

The 7-foot Bynum, who turned 21 years old Monday, is a big man with soft hands around the basket and one of the main reasons why the Lakers are among the favorites to return to the NBA Finals and win the championship. Along with Pau Gasol, Bynum helps form one of the best frontcourts in basketball.