In a bombshell development that’s sending shockwaves through the NBA, the Los Angeles Lakers are on the verge of unleashing a hidden gem from the G League onto the big stage. According to reports from Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Purple and Gold are close to inking a two-way contract with none other than Drew Timme – the undrafted powerhouse who’s been dominating the minors and is ready to terrorize opponents in the Association. But here’s the twist: to make room for this beast, the Lakers will have to swing the axe on one of their current two-way players. Buckle up, Lakers Nation – change is coming, and it’s going to be epic!
Who Is Drew Timme? The G League Monster Ready to Dominate
If you’re not familiar with Drew Timme, get ready to be schooled. This 25-year-old big man was a college sensation at Gonzaga, where he led the Bulldogs to multiple deep tournament runs with his silky smooth post moves, high basketball IQ, and relentless rebounding. Despite going undrafted in 2023, Timme didn’t fade into obscurity – oh no. He dove headfirst into the G League, honing his skills and proving he’s got what it takes to hang with the pros.
Timme’s journey took a promising turn last season when he earned a two-year standard contract with the Brooklyn Nets after a stellar run with their Long Island affiliate. In nine appearances for Brooklyn (averaging 28.2 minutes per game), he dropped 12.1 points, grabbed 7.2 rebounds, and dished out 2.2 assists – numbers that scream “I’m ready for more!” Sure, the Nets waived him during preseason after picking up his $1.96 million non-guaranteed option, but that was their loss. Now, Timme has kicked off the 2025–26 season with the South Bay Lakers in the G League, where he’s been a force of nature, showcasing the kind of all-around game that could make him a perfect fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Why is this a “shocking move”? Because Timme isn’t just another roster filler – he’s a G League beast with the potential to become a rotation staple. His size (6’10” with a 7’2″ wingspan), footwork, and scoring touch around the rim could add serious depth to a Lakers frontcourt that’s always hunting for reliable bigs. Imagine him bullying defenders in the paint, setting bone-crushing screens, and stretching the floor with his mid-range game. The league better watch out – Timme is coming to terrify!
The Roster Crunch: Who’s Getting Cut?
Of course, no blockbuster addition comes without sacrifice. The Lakers currently have their three two-way spots locked down by Nick Smith Jr., Christian Koloko, and Chris Manon. Siegel’s report indicates that Smith Jr. – the young guard with upside – is safe and expected to retain his position. That leaves Koloko and Manon on the chopping block.
Let’s break it down:
- Christian Koloko: Now in his third year, the 7’0″ center out of Arizona has shown flashes of defensive prowess but has struggled to crack meaningful minutes. This season, he’s appeared in just two garbage-time stints for the Lakers, failing to score a single point. While his rim protection could be valuable, Koloko’s limited offensive game and injury history (he missed time due to blood clot issues earlier in his career) might make him the odd man out.
- Chris Manon: The undrafted rookie from Vanderbilt is a raw talent with athleticism and energy, but he’s also only logged two brief appearances this fall – again, zero points on the board. As a newcomer, Manon represents potential, but the Lakers’ win-now mentality might prioritize Timme’s proven production over untested promise.
Whichever way the Lakers lean, this cut will sting. It’s a reminder of the brutal business of the NBA, where roster spots are gold, and tough decisions define championships. Expect the announcement soon – and don’t be surprised if it sparks debate across Lakers Twitter.
What This Means for the Lakers’ Championship Hunt
This move isn’t just about adding depth; it’s a strategic strike in the Lakers’ quest to reclaim their throne. With LeBron still defying Father Time and AD anchoring the defense, injecting Timme’s G League-honed hunger could provide the spark needed for a deep playoff run. The South Bay connection is poetic – Timme’s already familiar with the Lakers’ system, which means a seamless integration.
Critics might call it a low-risk gamble, but let’s be real: undrafted gems like Timme have turned into stars before (hello, Fred VanVleet and Duncan Robinson). If he pans out, the Lakers could have a steal on their hands, bolstering their bench without breaking the bank. On the flip side, releasing Koloko or Manon frees up flexibility, allowing the team to focus on players who can contribute immediately.
As the 2025–26 season heats up, all eyes are on LA. Will Timme live up to the hype and become the terror we’ve been waiting for? Or will this be another footnote in the Lakers’ endless roster shuffle? One thing’s for sure – this shocking move has the potential to shake up the Western Conference and remind everyone why the Lakers are always in the spotlight.
Stay tuned, hoops fans. The Purple and Gold are reloading, and the league is about to feel the quake! What do you think – is Timme the missing piece, or is this overhyped? Drop your takes in the comments below.