The Lakers have decided to waive two-way player Blake Hinson, according to a tweet from Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
Hinson was signed to a two-way contract by Los Angeles in early July.
This undrafted rookie wing, standing at 6’8”, has played two seasons with Pittsburgh following two years at Ole Miss. He also had a brief tenure at Iowa State but did not play there.
During his senior year, the 24-year-old Hinson recorded impressive averages of 18.5 points and 4.4 rebounds per game. He demonstrated his scoring ability with a shooting percentage of 45.4% from the field and 42.1% from beyond the arc, attempting an average of 7.9 three-pointers per game.
This decision opens a two-way contract spot for the Lakers, who are reportedly looking to sign center Christian Koloko. Currently, big man Armel Traore, another undrafted rookie, and center Colin Castleton hold the other two-way contracts.
According to Scotto, Hinson is likely to attract interest from multiple teams during free agency.
Lakers Waive Two-Way Player Blake Hinson as Team Prepares to Sign Christian Koloko
Overview of the Lakers’ Roster Changes
The Los Angeles Lakers have made headlines in the NBA off-season by waiving two-way player Blake Hinson. This strategic move comes as the team gears up to sign Christian Koloko, a center known for his defensive prowess and potential. The decision to part ways with Hinson reflects the Lakers’ ongoing efforts to optimize their roster as they head into the new season.
Understanding Two-Way Contracts in the NBA
Two-way contracts are a valuable tool for NBA teams, allowing them to develop young talent while maintaining roster flexibility. These contracts enable players to spend time both in the NBA and the G League, providing a pathway for players to gain experience and prove themselves.
What is a Two-Way Contract?
- Definition: A two-way contract allows a player to be active with an NBA team for up to 45 days.
- Purpose: Designed for developing players, these contracts help teams maintain a strong talent pool.
- G League Participation: Players on two-way contracts can play most of their games in the G League, honing their skills.
Who is Blake Hinson?
Blake Hinson, a versatile forward, joined the Lakers as a two-way player during the previous season. Known for his shooting ability and athleticism, he showed potential but struggled to secure a consistent role within the Lakers’ lineup.
Hinson’s Performance Highlights
| Season | Games Played | Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game</th | Assists Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-2023 | 15 | 5.3 | 2.1 | 1.2 |
The Significance of Waiving Hinson
Waiving Blake Hinson allows the Lakers to clear a roster spot for the incoming Christian Koloko while also freeing up financial flexibility. This move illustrates the Lakers’ commitment to building a competitive roster capable of contending for a championship.
Reasons Behind the Decision
- Performance Metrics: Hinson’s performance did not meet the high standards set by the franchise.
- Roster Optimization: The Lakers are in a position to enhance depth in their frontcourt.
- Future Planning: This decision aligns with the team’s long-term goals of becoming a championship contender.
Introducing Christian Koloko
Christian Koloko, a promising center from the University of Arizona, is set to join the Lakers roster. Known for his defensive skills, shot-blocking ability, and rebounding, Koloko is seen as an important addition to the Lakers’ frontcourt.
Koloko’s College Career Overview
| Season | Games Played | Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Blocks Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021-2022 | 37 | 12.6 | 7.3 | 2.8 |
| 2020-2021 | 29 | 6.6 | 6.6 | 0.6 |
Benefits of Signing Christian Koloko
The acquisition of Christian Koloko brings several benefits to the Lakers:
- Defensive Presence: Koloko’s shot-blocking and rebounding abilities address key areas of need for the Lakers.
- Young Talent: Adding a young player with potential aligns with the team’s future vision.
- Depth in Frontcourt: His presence enhances the depth chart and provides competition for existing players.
Practical Tips for Lakers Fans
As the Lakers continue to make roster adjustments, here are some tips for fans to stay engaged:
- Follow Training Camp: Keep an eye on how Koloko performs during training camp and preseason games.
- Engage on Social Media: Join discussions on platforms like Twitter and Reddit to share opinions on roster changes.
- Attend Games: Watching games live is the best way to support the team and get a feel for new players.
What This Means for the Lakers’ Season
Waiving Blake Hinson and signing Christian Koloko signifies a shift in the Lakers’ strategy as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season. With a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talent, the Lakers are positioning themselves to make a deep playoff run.
Projected Lineup Changes
With Koloko’s signing, the Lakers may look to adjust their lineup. Here’s a potential lineup featuring Koloko:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| PG | Russell Westbrook |
| SG | Austin Reaves |
| SF | LeBron James |
| PF | Anthony Davis |
| C | Christian Koloko |
First-Hand Experience: Lakers Fans Speak Out
Many Lakers fans have expressed their excitement about the upcoming changes. Social media is buzzing with discussions about Koloko’s potential impact on the team:
“I can’t wait to see what Koloko brings to the table! His defensive skills could really help our frontcourt.” – Lakers Fan
“Waiving Hinson was a tough decision, but I trust the front office to make the right moves.” – Lakers Fan
Conclusion
The Los Angeles Lakers continue to navigate the complexities of the NBA landscape with strategic roster adjustments. By waiving Blake Hinson and preparing to sign Christian Koloko, the Lakers are making calculated moves to enhance their competitiveness. As the season approaches, fans remain eager to see how these changes unfold on the court.
