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LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Lakers are signing guard Kobe Bufkin to a two-year contract, with a team option for the 2026-27 season, as first reported by Shams Charania of ESPN on February 8,2026.
Kobe Bufkin Returns to the Lakers
Bufkin, 22, rejoins the Lakers after previously signing two 10-day contracts with the team in January. He averaged 3.0 points and 1.3 rebounds in 11.3 minutes across four games during his initial stint with Los Angeles. He also spent time with the Memphis Grizzlies on a 10-day contract in November.
South Bay Success and NBA Journey
The Lakers acquired Bufkin to fill the final roster spot after he showcased his skills with their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers.He excelled in the G League, averaging 24.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.0 steals per game while shooting 49.6% from the field and 43.1% from three-point range (South Bay Lakers Official Website).
Draft and Trades
Bufkin was originally selected as the 15th overall pick in the 2023 NBA draft by the Atlanta Hawks (NBA.com Draft History).After two seasons with the Hawks, he was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in september and subsequently waived by Brooklyn in October (ESPN NBA Trade tracker).
Player Profile: Kobe Bufkin
Bufkin is a 6-foot-4 guard known for his scoring ability and improving all-around game. His performance in the G League demonstrated his potential to contribute at the NBA level. He provides the Lakers with added depth and versatility in the backcourt.
What This Means for the Lakers
The addition of Bufkin provides the Lakers with a young, athletic guard who can potentially contribute promptly.With injuries impacting the Lakers roster throughout the season, adding a player who has proven he can score at a high level in the G
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