In recent days, the Los Angeles Lakers have undergone significant changes to their roster, motivated by both strategic choices and unavoidable challenges. The team made a notable move at the trade deadline by acquiring Luke Kennard to fulfill their ongoing need for perimeter shooting.
With room still available on their roster, there were expectations that the Lakers would utilize the buyout market to bring in veterans such as Lonzo Ball, Cam Thomas, or Haywood Highsmith. However, general manager Rob Pelinka surprised many by promoting from within and signing G League standout Kobe Bufkin to a two-year contract.
This shift in strategy comes as the Lakers navigate through additional disruption. Star Luka Doncic missed a recent game against the Golden State Warriors and has been ruled out for the upcoming match against the Oklahoma City Thunder. This situation has further emphasized Los Angeles’ need to adapt quickly.
In addition to Bufkin’s promotion, the Lakers have assigned second-year guard Bronny James Jr. to the South Bay Lakers, their G League affiliate. This season, James has appeared in 27 NBA games, averaging 1.9 points and 1.1 assists while shooting 38.8% from the field. His limited playing time has often kept him on the fringes of the rotation and led to his absence from the last two games.
This assignment to the G League offers James a chance for more consistent minutes and a clearer role, which is crucial for his development following his selection as the 55th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. In his G League debut last season, he averaged 18.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, establishing a solid foundation for his growth.
Although James’ recent G League performances have shown a drop in production to 12.0 points per game, his shooting efficiency has improved to 45.1%. The Lakers hope that a productive run in the G League can restore his confidence and rhythm, as seen during the second half of last season, where he averaged 21.9 points over an extended stint.
The timing of James’ assignment serves as a reminder of the challenges the Lakers are facing, especially in light of a depleted guard rotation. With Doncic also sidelined and James sent to the G League, opportunities for him in upcoming games may be further limited.
On Sunday, the Lakers also assigned Dalton Knecht and rookie wing Adou Thiero to South Bay, indicating a commitment to player development. Knecht’s assignment is primarily developmental, while Thiero’s inclusion marks progress in his recovery from a sprained MCL.
Through these moves, the Lakers are clearly prioritizing internal development over short-term fixes. As they continue to navigate injuries and roster changes, the focus on young talent and growth offers a hopeful perspective for the team as they work through a challenging season.