The Los Angeles Lakers have made a strategic move to bolster their frontcourt by signing free agent center Christian Koloko to a two-way contract. Standing tall at 7-foot-1, Koloko arrives with a reputation as a developmental project—a potential diamond in the rough that the Lakers hope to polish into a valuable asset.
This acquisition did not come without sacrifice; the Lakers waived forward Blake Hinson to open up their third two-way slot. Koloko joins center Colin Castleton and forward Armel Traore—who stands at 6-foot-9—on the Lakers’ list of two-way contracts, filling out a trio that brings promising talent and depth to the squad.
Koloko's Journey
Koloko’s path to the Lakers is marked by both promise and adversity. Selected as the 33rd overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Toronto Raptors, his rookie season was unfortunately curtailed by a blood clot issue, sidelining him for the entire year. Health remains a focal point for Koloko; he must receive clearance from the NBA's "fitness-to-play panel," which includes a trio of doctors—a representative from the NBA, another from the players union, and a mutually agreed-upon third doctor.
Despite these setbacks, there's a sense of optimism around Koloko’s potential. During his three seasons at the University of Arizona, he demonstrated impressive growth, particularly in his final season where he averaged 12.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game. His defensive prowess earned him the title of Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year, highlighting the kind of impact he can make on the court.
A Promising Assessment
The Lakers’ independent assessment of Koloko has been promising. Although his debut season numbers with the Raptors—3.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks in 13.8 minutes per game—do not leap off the page, they hint at a player who can contribute in a limited role. This evaluation suggests that with the right development and mentoring, Koloko could evolve into a more significant contributor.
Koloko’s ability to join the active roster could have far-reaching implications for the Lakers' season. The front office and coaching staff are banking on his potential to strengthen their defensive capabilities, adding depth and versatility to the team’s rotation.
Conclusion
In summary, the addition of Christian Koloko on a two-way contract signifies the Lakers' commitment to unearthing and nurturing young talent. By addressing their frontcourt depth and taking a calculated risk on Koloko's potential, the Lakers are aiming to blend experience with youth, hoping to craft a balanced and formidable roster for the season ahead.