The Los Angeles Lakers have signed former No. 15 overall pick Kobe Bufkin to a 10‑day contract, rewarding his 24.7 points‑per‑game surge with the South Bay Lakers. The move provides immediate wing depth as injuries mount and gives Bufkin a rapid audition to translate his G‑League production into NBA minutes. If he can replicate even a portion of that scoring, he could become a key bench spark for the playoff push.
Background: Bufkin’s Draft and Early NBA Journey
From Michigan to the Atlanta Hawks
Kobe Bufkin entered the NBA after a standout sophomore season at the University of Michigan, where he averaged 12.6 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game. Selected 15th overall by the Atlanta Hawks in the 2023 draft, he struggled for playing time, appearing in just 27 games and posting 2.1 points per contest over two seasons.
G‑League Breakout: 2025‑26 South Bay Performance
Stat Line Highlights
- 24.7 points per game
- 4.9 rebounds per game
- 3.3 assists per game
- 48.2% field‑goal shooting
- 38.5% three‑point shooting
- 1.4 steals per game
A marquee moment came on January 3, 2026, when Bufkin hit a contested three‑pointer with 1.8 seconds left to seal a 108‑106 win over the Memphis Hustle.
Lakers’ Reasoning Behind the 10‑Day Contract
Coaching Staff Perspective
General manager Rob Parker and head coach Darvin Ham have emphasized a “next‑man‑up” ethos, rewarding players who demonstrate consistent production and fit the team’s pace‑and‑space system. Assistant coach JJ Redick noted that Bufkin’s decision‑making, off‑ball movement, and defensive hustle set him apart, making the short‑term deal a low‑risk audition.
Potential Impact on Los Angeles Roster
Off‑Court Implications
If Bufkin translates a fraction of his G‑League output, he could provide a secondary ball‑handler capable of spacing the floor with his near‑39% three‑point accuracy. His versatility would help alleviate guard depth concerns caused by Russell Westbrook’s ankle strain and D’Angelo Russell’s shooting inconsistency. A successful stint could position Bufkin for a two‑way or standard contract, offering the Lakers a cost‑controlled piece and preserving cap flexibility for future free‑agent moves.
What to Watch in the Upcoming Games
Key Evaluation Points
- Ability to create his own shot against elite NBA defenders
- Effectiveness in the Lakers’ pick‑and‑roll and transition offense
- Defensive communication and help‑side hustle
- Clutch performance in close‑game situations
Bufkin’s 10‑day contract begins Monday, with immediate opportunities in back‑to‑back matchups against the Portland Trail Blazers and the Denver Nuggets. The coaching staff will closely monitor his ball‑handling, off‑ball movement, and defensive contributions during these games.