In a move that could prove to be a steal for the Los Angeles Lakers, former Oklahoma City Thunder forward Darius Bazley is turning heads at the 2025 NBA Summer League, showcasing his potential to reclaim a spot in the league. The 25-year-old, selected 23rd overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, has been a standout performer, reaching double figures in four of his five Summer League games and notching three double-doubles. With his sights set on reviving his NBA career, Bazley is proving he’s a hidden gem who could provide significant value on what’s expected to be a budget-friendly contract.
Bazley’s journey has been anything but straightforward. After spending 3.5 seasons with the Thunder, where he averaged a solid 9.2 points and 5.4 rebounds across 221 games (118 starts), his career hit a rough patch. Over the past year and a half, he bounced between the NBA and G League, appearing in just 16 games across stints with the Phoenix Suns, Philadelphia 76ers, and Utah Jazz before playing last season in China. Now, wearing the iconic purple and gold, Bazley is on a mission to show he still belongs among the NBA’s elite.
“It’s been fun, it’s fun for me in a way because I’m on a mission to try and revamp my career, get back to prove I belong out there,” Bazley told Lakers Nation. “I can help a team win, contribute to winning.”
Bazley’s Summer League performances have highlighted his growth as a player. He’s been working on his shooting and decision-making, aiming to integrate seamlessly into the Lakers’ system. “I’ve been taking strides on my shot and really my growth as a player, being a lot more decisive and connecting more on the offense,” he explained. “Helping and plugging into guys, I’m going to speak towards the Lakers, like LeBron [James] and Luka [Doncic] and stuff like that.” While Doncic isn’t a Laker, Bazley’s enthusiasm for contributing alongside high-caliber teammates like LeBron James underscores his team-first mentality.
At 6’8” with a versatile skill set, Bazley brings the kind of athleticism and defensive tenacity that could complement the Lakers’ star-studded roster. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the floor makes him an intriguing fit for a team looking to bolster its depth without breaking the bank. However, the Lakers will need to clear a roster spot to officially sign Bazley, a situation that bears watching as the Summer League concludes.
If Bazley secures a deal, it could be a low-risk, high-reward move for Los Angeles. His numbers with the Thunder—9.2 points and 5.4 rebounds per game—demonstrate his ability to impact games, and his recent performances suggest he’s ready to take the next step. At just 25, Bazley’s best years may still be ahead of him, and the Lakers could have found a diamond in the rough.
As the NBA landscape continues to shift, Bazley’s emergence could give the Lakers an edge in their quest for another championship. Keep an eye on this former Thunder beast—he might just be the steal of the offseason.