Two-way contracts have become a key vehicle for teams to stash developing players without guaranteeing a full roster spot. The Lakers announced two such deals, bringing in Vanderbilt forward AK Okereke and guard Peter Suder from Miami (Ohio). Neither deal guarantees a place on the NBA roster for the 2026-27 season, but both players are being evaluated for their potential to grow within the organization.
Peter Suder, a 22-year-old guard, spent four collegiate seasons at Bellarmine and Miami (Ohio). In his senior year, Suder posted strong numbers across 33 games, averaging 14.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. He also shot 54.6% from the field and 42.1% from three-point range on roughly 2.9 attempts per game. Suder played a pivotal role in Miami’s regular-season conference championship run, earning First Team All-MAC honors and being named MAC Player of the Year.
Suder’s performance in the NCAA Tournament showcased his scoring ability, with 27 points in a first-round matchup against Tennessee, including four makes from beyond the arc. His combination of size (6-foot-5), versatility as a guard, and basketball IQ has drawn attention from within the league, with observers noting his potential to develop into a reliable depth option over time. Some analysts have highlighted his defensive prospects and scoring potential as indicators that he could carve out a longer NBA career if he continues to develop.
The path for Suder will include NBA Summer League, where he will join fellow undrafted players in competing for roster opportunities. If he can impress, the next steps would involve training camp and preseason performances that could secure a two-way stint or a spot on the Lakers’ main roster in the following season. If his development continues on schedule, Suder could split time between the NBA club and the rebranded Coachella Valley Lakers, contributing at both levels as he progresses.
The Lakers have a history of targeting overlooked talent in the undrafted pool, following a blueprint that has yielded notable successes in recent years. The acquisition of Suder adds to a growing belief within the organization that promising prospects can emerge from outside the traditional draft hierarchy and develop into meaningful contributors over time.
In the broader context of the franchise’s development strategy, Suder’s profile—combining a skilled shooting touch with playmaking ability and a strong understanding of the game—fits the archetype the Lakers have pursued in recent seasons. Evaluators have noted his high basketball IQ, positional flexibility, and potential to improve on defense, all of which could help him transition from college success to professional development.
Looking ahead, Suder’s journey will hinge on continued growth, opportunities in summer league play, and the ability to translate college success to the professional level. The two-way contract path offers a structured environment to refine his skills while staying closely connected to the Lakers’ organizational goals. With the right development trajectory, Suder could become a valuable depth piece and potentially a longer-term contributor for the franchise.
For now, the Lakers’ offseason strategy centers on identifying and nurturing talent with upside who can contribute in the near term while preserving flexibility for future roster moves. Suder is among the intriguing prospects in this year’s undrafted class, and his progress over the coming months will determine whether he joins the organization’s core as a developing piece or continues to seek a more permanent role in the league.
