Lakers G League standout Kobe Bufkin, who emerged as one of South Bay’s most productive players during the 2025-26 season, has drawn significant attention this offseason. Bufkin made his Summer League debut with a new team and quickly made a strong impression. In his appearance, he scored 30 points in just under 32 minutes, shooting 8-for-16 from the field and hitting five three-pointers as his team fell 105-92 to the Minnesota Timberwolves. He also contributed four rebounds, six assists, and five steals, showcasing the two-way versatility that made him one of the G League’s top guards last season.
Bufkin previously earned a 10-day NBA contract with the Lakers in January, though Los Angeles did not extend a second 10-day deal and eventually returned him to the G League. He later signed a two-year standard NBA contract that included a team option for the 2026-27 season, a deal that was later terminated when the Lakers waived him before the playoffs. Since then, Bufkin has attracted attention as one of the most accomplished young guards available outside the NBA, leaving many wonderings about his next destination.
Bufkin’s 2025-26 G League numbers were prolific: in 24 appearances for South Bay, he averaged about 24.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.2 steals, and nearly one block per game. He shot an efficient 50.8% from the field and 42.3% from three-point range on seven attempts per game, with three 40-point performances highlighting his scoring prowess. Despite his strong G League production, his NBA minutes with the Lakers were limited, totaling 119 minutes across 16 appearances, with averages of 2.9 points, 0.8 rebounds, and 0.6 assists.
The Lakers quickly filled all three two-way roster spots with Manon, Okereke, and Suder, effectively closing the door on a return for Bufkin in that capacity. Given his high-level G League production, Bufkin appears unlikely to remain in the G League long-term, and his Summer League and potential training camp opportunities with New Orleans could lead to a larger role with the Pelicans, who still have two two-way roster spots available.
If Bufkin eventually joins the Pelicans’ G League affiliate, the Birmingham Squadron, New Orleans would need to acquire Bufkin’s returning G League rights from the Lakers—an offseason transaction that occurs regularly across the league. Should that move happen, the Pelicans would add one of the G League’s most talented young guards and a player poised for another NBA opportunity.
This season’s Summer League and training camp could be Bufkin’s platform to showcase his continued development and pursue another chance at the NBA level. As the tournament opens, all eyes will be on how Bufkin and the Lakers’ rookie and roster mix perform on the court.
