Lakers: Watch Touching Pregame Moment Between Darvin Ham And Ex-LA Player

Ryan was waived by the team in December and now plays for the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Although small forward Matt Ryan departed from Los Angeles in December, head coach Darvin Ham maintains a close bond with his former player. The two may be on different teams now, but the pair was able to express appreciation toward one another before Friday’s game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves.

Jovan Buha of The Athletic tweeted pout the touching moment ahead of the game: 

Darvin Ham and Matt Ryan sharing a moment pregame pic.twitter.com/2laVOgoytz

— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) March 4, 2023

Ryan originally signed with the Lakers in September 2022. Most notably, fans may remember his game-winning shot on November 2nd against the New Orleans Pelicans when the small forward hit a corner three at the regulation buzzer to contribute to the Lakers' 120-117 overtime victory.

During his short stint in Los Angeles, Ryan averaged 3.9 points across the total 12 games he played for the franchise. 

Ryan was waived by the Lakers in December. He then signed a two-way contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves later that month.

Beyond the stats, his journey alone has been a testament to his grit and work ethic. 

From going undrafted in 2020, working as a landscaper for a cemetery and deliver driver for DoorDash, to eventually playing for one of the greatest NBA franchises, Ryan’s pathway has been unconventional but inspiring to all.

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