The Los Angeles Lakers are bolstering their Summer League roster with the addition of Darius Bazley, a former first-round NBA draft pick. This move comes amidst a flurry of activity for the Lakers during NBA free agency, showcasing their focus on both the present and the future.
Bazley's NBA Journey
Darius Bazley, selected 23rd overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, brings five seasons of NBA experience to the Lakers. He's previously played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns, Utah Jazz, and Philadelphia 76ers. His career averages stand at 8.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 41.4% and a three-point percentage of 30.9% across 237 games.
Most recently, Bazley played in the NBA during the 2023-24 season, splitting time between the Utah Jazz and the Philadelphia 76ers. In nine games, he averaged 5.3 points and 3.1 rebounds while shooting an impressive 60.0% from the field.
Summer League Opportunity
Bazley's participation in the Lakers' Summer League provides him with a valuable opportunity to showcase his skills and potentially earn a spot on an NBA roster. His performance in the Summer League could be a crucial factor in securing a contract with the Lakers or another NBA team.
G League Success
Bazley has also demonstrated his talent in the NBA G League. During his time with the Salt Lake City Stars and the Delaware Blue Coats, he averaged 19.0 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game. His strong performances earned him selections to the All-G League Second Team and All-Defensive Team.
Other Notable Additions
Besides Bazley, the Lakers' Summer League roster includes other notable names like Eric Dixon, the leading scorer in college basketball for the 2024-25 season from Villanova, and former North Carolina star RJ Davis. These additions highlight the Lakers' commitment to developing young talent and exploring various player options.