Kobe Bufkin, a talented former guard from the University of Michigan, has officially signed with the Los Angeles Lakers to occupy the team’s 15th roster position. The announcement was made on Sunday, revealing that Bufkin has secured a two-year contract at the league minimum, allowing him to remain with the Lakers through the 2025-26 season, with the option for the 2026-27 season.
At just 22 years old, Bufkin is expected to earn over $3.3 million from this signing, according to Spotrac. The guard previously played as a first-round draft pick for the Atlanta Hawks and has participated in 31 NBA games so far, balancing his time between the Hawks and the Lakers.
Bufkin initially joined the Lakers on a 10-day contract in January, contributing an average of 3 points and 1.3 rebounds across four games. Prior to that, he also had a brief stint with the Memphis Grizzlies, where he signed a 10-day contract in November.
His standout performances in the NBA’s G League have solidified his reputation, particularly during his time with the South Bay Lakers, the team’s affiliate. In 14 G League games, Bufkin averaged an impressive 27.7 points, 4.7 assists, and 3.9 rebounds. His previous season with the College Park Skyhawks, the G League affiliate of the Atlanta Hawks, saw him average 23.6 points along with 5.9 assists and 5.4 rebounds.
Bufkin’s collegiate career at Michigan included notable achievements, earning third-team All-Big Ten honors in the 2022-23 season while averaging 14 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.9 assists. Drafted as the 15th overall pick in 2023, he played a total of 17 games in his rookie season before being traded to the Brooklyn Nets, where he was later waived.
This new contract provides Bufkin with an opportunity to further his career in the NBA, showcasing his capabilities on a larger stage with the Lakers, a team known for its storied history and success in the league. With his impressive performances in the G League and a chance to contribute to a premier franchise, Bufkin’s future in professional basketball looks promising.