The Los Angeles Lakers are making moves in the offseason, continuously seeking to strengthen their roster. In a recent development reported by Shams Charania of ESPN, the Lakers are set to sign Christian Koloko and forward Chris Manon to two-way NBA contracts.
Christian Koloko, a 7-footer, played in 37 games for the Lakers in the previous season. Despite not starting any games, Koloko showed promise, averaging 2.4 points, 2.5 rebounds, 0.4 assists, and 0.4 blocks in just under 10 minutes per game. The Lakers are impressed with Koloko's progress and hope he can become a valuable asset, particularly in shoring up the center position.
Chris Manon, an undrafted rookie out of Vanderbilt, showcased his skills in the Summer League with the Golden State Warriors. Known for his defensive prowess and hustle on the court, Manon recorded impressive stats in his last season at Vanderbilt and has the potential to contribute to the Lakers' roster.
The Lakers have a history of uncovering hidden gems through the draft and free agency, with players like Alex Caruso, Austin Reaves, and Ivica Zubac finding success in LA. In this year's NBA Draft, the Lakers traded up to select Adou Thiero, a forward from Arkansas, adding to their pool of developing talent.
By offering two-way contracts to Koloko and Manon, the Lakers are investing in young talents with the hope of bolstering their roster depth. While Koloko brings experience within the Lakers' system, Manon's defensive abilities and all-around hustle make him a valuable addition to the team. The decision to sign these players may indicate that other prospects, like Eric Dixon, may not get an opportunity with the organization at this time.
Looking ahead, while the Lakers roster appears strong on paper, former player and analyst Byron Scott believes that additional acquisitions may be necessary for the team to reach its full potential. The Lakers are keen on building a competitive roster that can contend in the upcoming season.
As the Lakers make strategic moves to enhance their squad, fans and analysts are eager to see how Koloko and Manon will integrate into the team and contribute on the court. With a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents, the Lakers are positioning themselves for success in the competitive NBA landscape.
For the latest updates on the Los Angeles Lakers and their roster developments, stay tuned to reputable sources and official team channels. As the NBA season approaches, the Lakers' fan base is buzzing with anticipation to see how these new additions will impact the team's performance on the court.