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Lakers Bolster Big Man Depth with New Signing
29 Oct
Summary
- Lakers sign 7-footer Lawson Lovering to a two-way contract.
- Kevon Looney's playing time has diminished significantly this season.
- Sandro Mamukelashvili has been filling in at center in small-ball lineups.
The Los Angeles Lakers are reinforcing their frontcourt by signing 7-footer Lawson Lovering to a two-way contract. This move addresses a critical need for depth behind starting center Walker Kessler. To accommodate Lovering, the team will waive AK Okereke, freeing up a roster spot.
Starter Walker Kessler has lacked adequate backup. Kevon Looney, the team's only other true center, has experienced a significant reduction in playing time. Looney played 15 minutes in the season opener on October 21, but only five minutes in each of the subsequent three games. As of Wednesday, Looney's plus/minus rating is the lowest among players with at least three games played.
In Looney's absence, the Lakers have frequently utilized small-ball lineups, with Sandro Mamukelashvili often playing center. Lovering spent the 2025-26 season with the Memphis Grizzlies organization, splitting time between their G League affiliate and the NBA team. In the G League, he averaged 7.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. He also appeared in two NBA games for the Grizzlies last season.
