Lakers Sign Kobe Bufkin to Two-Year Deal with Team Option for 2026-27
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The Los Angeles Lakers have filled their lone open roster spot by inking guard Kobe Bufkin to a two-year standard NBA contract that includes a team option for the 2026-27 season, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Bufkin, 22, has dominated this year with the South Bay Lakers, averaging 26.7 points, 4.1 rebounds and 4.3 assists while shooting 51.3% from the field and 43.1% from three over 21 G League appearances. He spent 10 days with the parent club earlier in the season but saw limited minutes before his short-term deal expired.
The former first-round pick now returns for what will be his third NBA season. If his play translates to the league level, Los Angeles can keep him through 2026-27 by exercising the team option included in the agreement.
Background on the Lakers’ roster moves
At the trade deadline, the Lakers dealt Gabe Vincent to the Memphis Grizzlies for sharpshooter Luke Kennard, leaving one vacant spot on the 15-man roster. Rather than pursue an external candidate from the buyout market, the front office chose to promote Bufkin.
Redick expects more shots from Kennard
Head coach JJ Redick said he intends to encourage Kennard—who owns a career 44.1% mark from deep—to increase his attempts beyond the arc. “I’m gonna highly encourage him to shoot more and not turn down shots,” Redick told reporters, noting Kennard’s off-ball movement and playmaking as added benefits.
Bufkin’s signing finalizes the Lakers’ roster as they push toward the postseason, while Kennard’s arrival provides additional perimeter spacing for a team ranked near the bottom of the league in three-point attempts.
Source: Lakers Nation
