In light of several news stories that Chinese basketball superstar Yi Jianlian is set to join the Los Angeles Lakers, the club has denied that the player is set to join the team.

"We do not have a contract with him and have no comment or information we can share with you at this time," Lakers Vice President of Public Relations John Black told Xinhua on Thursday.

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There have been reports that the Chinese forward is set to return to the NBA to fit in with the Western Conference Pacific Division team in a one-year deal worth an estimated USD $8 million.  The Lakers are seeking to rebuild after five-time league champion and 18-time All-Star Kobe Bryant retired from playing professional basketball last season.

The Lakers has hired the services of former Golden State Warriors assistant coach Luke Walton as the team's newest head coach for the upcoming season.

"Yi's signing has only been reported by media," the Senior Manager, Public Relations at Los Angeles Lakers Calder Hynes said.

Yi, who was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2007, played for the New Jersey Nets, the Washington Wizards, and the Dallas Mavericks.

At the Rio Olympics, Yi led the Chinese team averaging 20.4 points and 6.6 rebounds. 

TagsYi Jianlian, chinese basketball association, NBA, Los Angeles Lakers, guangdong southern tigers, Rio Olympics 2016