Chris Mañon sees elite defense as ticket to permanent Lakers spot
chris-manon-sees-elite-defense-as-ticket-to-permanent-lakers-spot
LAS VEGAS — Two-way wing Chris Mañon believes his path to a full NBA contract runs through the defensive end of the floor, and he is using the 2026 Summer League to reinforce that message to the Los Angeles Lakers.
The 24-year-old guard, who spent most of his rookie campaign with the South Bay Lakers, was a G League All-Defensive First Team selection and runner-up for the circuit’s Defensive Player of the Year award. After Los Angeles defeated the Dallas Mavericks on July 11 at the Thomas & Mack Center, Mañon said his priority in every appearance is simple.
“I try to be a winning player every time I step on the court,” he said. “Whenever I get out there, I just play as hard as I can, and usually good things happen when you do that.”
Mañon acknowledged that becoming “one of the best” stoppers in the league is essential if he hopes to secure a standard NBA deal. “I think I’ve been pretty good, but I could be better, and I’m going to keep working on that for sure,” he added.
Four straight wins fuel confidence
Since a lopsided opening loss to the Golden State Warriors in the California Classic, the Lakers have rattled off four consecutive victories, including the first two games in Las Vegas. Mañon credited improved chemistry for the streak.
“Guys are getting more comfortable, we’re learning each other’s tendencies and different guys are stepping up,” he said, citing Arthur Kaluma, P, Peter Suder and the group’s response while Cam Carr sat out.
Embracing leadership role
As one of the few returning players on the roster, coaches have labeled Mañon the team’s veteran presence. He has leaned into the assignment, offering guidance “on the court, off the court, whatever the guys need.”
Modeling game after Caruso, Holiday
Mañon studies two guards known for their defensive impact — former Laker Alex Caruso and Boston Celtics guard Jrue Holiday — in an effort to mirror their energy and versatility.
The Lakers continue Summer League play later this week as Mañon attempts to parlay his defensive reputation into a firmer place in head coach JJ Redick’s plans.
Source: LakersNation.com
