Lakers Make Flurry of Roster Moves Following NBA Draft as Offseason Plan Takes Shape

Lakers Make Flurry of Roster Moves Following NBA Draft as Offseason Plan Takes Shape

In a thrilling post-draft flurry, the Los Angeles Lakers are making headlines with their latest roster moves. After snagging promising talent Cameron Carr late in the first round, the team aimed to replicate that success by pursuing Henri Veesaar, only to see him claimed by the Atlanta Hawks. Undeterred, the Lakers shifted their focus to undrafted prospects, making several strategic signings that could pay off big.

Immediately following the conclusion of the NBA Draft’s second round, the Lakers secured two two-way contracts and brought in a trio of undrafted players on Exhibit 10 deals, according to sources from The Sporting Tribune. This savvy approach allows the Lakers to evaluate these new faces during the upcoming NBA Summer League, with an eye toward their G League affiliate, the Coachella Valley team.

The newly signed players—William Kyle III, Chase Ross, and Robbie Avila-are set to showcase their skills next month. The Lakers have only one two-way roster spot left, currently occupied by AK Okereke and Peter Suder, leaving the door open for potential conversions from this trio. Last season, Drew Timme and Chris Mañon held those two-way spots, but both are now free agents.

Kyle, a towering presence, previously played at UCLA before finishing his college career at Syracuse, where he averaged 8.4 points, 7.1 rebounds, and showcased his defensive prowess. Avila gained attention during the 2023-24 season when Indiana State fans felt their team was unjustly left out of the NCAA Tournament. Now, after transferring to Saint Louis, he comes off a solid season averaging 12.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists, making him a versatile asset.

Meanwhile, Ross is fresh off a standout final season at Marquette, where he averaged 14.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, and a remarkable 2.3 steals per game. His ability to guard multiple positions makes him a compelling candidate for the Lakers’ training camp.

As the Lakers navigate this critical phase in the second-apron era, fans are eager to see how these new additions will perform. Will any of them secure a permanent spot on the roster? Only time will tell as the summer league approaches.