Sun Feb 08 05:20:00 UTC 2026: # Lakers Sign G League Standout Kobe Bufkin to Two-Year Contract
The Story
The Los Angeles Lakers have signed free agent guard Kobe Bufkin to a two-year contract, including a team option for the second season. The news was first reported by Shams Charania of ESPN on February 7, 2026. Bufkin, 22, has been performing well with the Lakers’ G League affiliate in South Bay and previously played four games with the Lakers on a 10-day contract in January. Despite being a 15th overall pick by Atlanta in the 2023 draft, Bufkin struggled to find consistent playing time in the NBA before landing with the Lakers.
Key Points
- Kobe Bufkin signed a two-year contract with the Lakers on February 7, 2026.
- The contract includes a team option for the second season.
- Bufkin previously played for the Lakers on a 10-day contract in January, averaging 3.0 PPG in 11 minutes per game.
- He was drafted by Atlanta with the 15th pick in the 2023 draft.
- Signing Bufkin fills the Lakers’ 15th standard roster spot, potentially limiting their flexibility in the buyout market.
- Bufkin has been averaging 27.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 4.7 assists in 14 G League games.
Critical Analysis
The Lakers’ signing of Kobe Bufkin reflects a strategic move to solidify their roster depth with a young, promising talent who has already shown potential within their system. Bufkin’s performance in the G League clearly impressed the organization, leading to this two-year deal with a team option. The timing of this signing, concurrent with rumors of a potential blockbuster trade centered around Dalton Knecht, suggests the Lakers are pursuing multiple avenues to improve their team. On February 8, 2026 news outlets discussed the possibility of aquiring a six time all-star, indicating a need for greater talent to compete. Filling the 15th roster spot could be a calculated decision to balance immediate needs with future flexibility, especially given the potential implications for the buyout market.
Key Takeaways
- The Lakers are prioritizing developing young talent within their G League system.
- The Lakers are actively exploring different strategies (trade and free agency) to bolster their roster.
- Bufkin’s G League performance earned him a significant opportunity with the Lakers.
- The signing affects the Lakers’ ability to sign other players during the buyout period.
- Lakers are aiming to improve their team talent to compete with the leagues best.
Impact Analysis
This signing has a limited, short-term impact on the Lakers. While it solidifies their roster and provides a potentially valuable asset in Bufkin, his actual contribution to the team’s performance remains to be seen. The real impact hinges on Bufkin’s ability to translate his G League success to the NBA level and whether the Lakers choose to exercise their team option in the second year. Furthermore, it may subtly reduce the Lakers’ optionality during the buyout market, requiring careful deliberation before any further roster moves. However, the bigger impact will come if the Lakers follow through on the rumored trade of Dalton Knecht, and if the Lakers can compete in the playoffs.
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