The Jazz waived Raja Bell on Sunday.

Thus ends a months-long stalemate between Bell and the Jazz, who had no intention of playing him but also didn't want to pay him his annual salary only to see him sign with the Lakers or another team competing for the playoffs. For the record, Bell was bought out too late to be eligible for the playoffs this year.

The buyout talks between Raja Bell and the Jazz are expected to go right up to Friday's 11:59 p.m. ET deadline, reports ESPN's Marc Stein.

Bell hasn't played all season, but would reportedly be a top target for the Lakers if he were bought out. Unfortunately, Jazz VP Kevin O'Connor said recently he might not buy Bell simply to prevent the 36-year-old defensive stopped from signing with L.A. The Jazz are only interested in a minimum buyout, but that's not something Bell's been willing to accept up to this point.

Raja Bell is reportedly telling friends that he's going to join the Lakers, according to Alex Kennedy of Hoopsworld.

With the trade deadline now over, fans will start salivating over potential buyout candidates and how they might be able to help their favorite teams. For Bell, the reality is he hasn't played all season, is 36 years old and will need time to get into game shape if and when he signs. The Lakers could use help off the bench, but if Bell does eventually wind up in L.A., expectations should be kept in check.