Lakers Lose Guard
The NBA community is saying goodbye to another veteran, as point guard D.J. Augustin has officially announced his retirement after a successful 14-season career. Though Augustin’s time with the Los Angeles Lakers was brief—just 21 games during the 2022 season—he left a mark as part of the team and earned respect as a versatile, dependable player known for his shooting and steady playmaking. His retirement adds another name to the list of recent NBA veterans concluding their careers, closing a chapter on a journey that saw him contribute to multiple franchises across the league.
D.J. Augustin began his basketball career at the University of Texas, where he quickly earned accolades, making the First-Team All Big-12 Team in 2008. His success at the collegiate level led him to be selected ninth overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2008 NBA Draft, a franchise that saw him as their future point guard. Augustin made an immediate impact, scoring 12 points and adding two assists in his NBA debut. He finished his rookie season averaging 11.8 points and 3.5 assists per game, quickly establishing himself as a promising young player.
Over the years, Augustin became known as a steady backup guard with a knack for reliable shooting and floor management. He played for several teams, including the Indiana Pacers, Chicago Bulls, Detroit Pistons, and Orlando Magic, where he found one of his longest stays. He later joined the Milwaukee Bucks, Houston Rockets, and finally the Lakers, each experience adding to his reputation as a respected journeyman in the league. With the Lakers, he averaged 5.3 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, showing a strong shooting touch with a 42.6% three-point percentage.
Augustin’s overall career stats include averages of 9.5 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game across 976 games. Though he never reached an All-Star game or won an NBA championship, his longevity speaks volumes about his adaptability, resilience, and professionalism. Known for his positive influence on and off the court, he leaves a legacy as a solid backup point guard who consistently rose to the challenge of filling crucial roles across different teams.
After spending a season with the Lakers, Augustin briefly returned to the Houston Rockets but did not play, ultimately deciding to step away from the game. His retirement marks the end of a hard-fought and commendable career, one that will be remembered by teammates, fans, and franchises as a testament to his dedication and impact in the NBA.