Lakers Sign Drew Timme to Two-Way Contract

The Los Angeles Lakers have officially signed Drew Timme, the former Gonzaga star, to a two-way contract, as confirmed by the Orange County Register. This signing comes as the Lakers waive two-way big man Christian Koloko, making room for Timme, who had recently demonstrated impressive performance with the South Bay Lakers in the G League. Timme, standing at six feet ten inches, made a significant impact during his time in the G League, where he averaged 25.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, four assists, and 1.2 steals over six games. His prior experience includes a brief stint with the Brooklyn Nets last season, where he averaged 12.1 points and 7.2 rebounds in nine games, showcasing his potential as a contributor at the NBA level.

According to Lakers Nation, the Lakers have had a mixed record with their draft picks but have successfully identified talent in undrafted free agents and the G League. Players like Austin Reaves and Alex Caruso have emerged as key contributors in the past, and Timme's recent success in the G League has likely encouraged the Lakers' scouting department to bring him on board. His combination of size, skill, and shooting ability makes him a potentially valuable addition to the Lakers' roster, especially with the recent injury concerns surrounding starting center Deandre Ayton, who has been ruled out due to a right knee contusion.

Timme's signing is seen as a low-risk, high-reward move by the Lakers, allowing them to bolster their depth as they navigate the ongoing season. With the current center rotation consisting of Ayton and Jaxson Hayes, there is an opportunity for Timme to step in and make an impact if necessary. Notably, Timme will be eligible to play in up to 40 games for the Lakers this season, with the possibility of being upgraded to a standard contract if his performance warrants it.

The Lakers have also been proactive in their approach to player development, as evidenced by their decision to integrate Timme into their plans after he earned the G League Player of the Week title shortly after joining South Bay. This commitment to nurturing young talent reflects the organization's recognition of the need for a strong foundation for the future. The addition of Timme may not only strengthen the current roster but also align with the team’s long-term strategy to cultivate homegrown talent that can contribute in the years to come.

In summary, the Lakers' signing of Drew Timme to a two-way contract represents a significant step in their ongoing effort to enhance their roster depth and invest in young talent. With his strong showing in the G League and previous NBA experience, Timme could become an essential part of the Lakers' plans moving forward, particularly as they manage injuries and depth concerns throughout the season.