Los Angeles Lakers Sign Kobe Bufkin After Trade Deadline, Shift Focus From Buyout Market to Internal Development

Following the February 5 NBA trade deadline, attention quickly shifted to what the Los Angeles Lakers would do next to strengthen their roster. With limited trade flexibility remaining, the front office, led by general manager Rob Pelinka, was widely expected to explore the buyout market for additional depth and shooting.

Instead of pursuing high-profile buyout candidates, however, the Lakers made an unexpected but calculated move — choosing internal development over external additions. The team has officially signed guard Kobe Bufkin to a two-year contract, signaling a strategic shift that prioritizes long-term growth and roster stability.

Lakers’ Post-Deadline Strategy Takes Shape

The Lakers entered the post-deadline period with one open roster spot after acquiring sharpshooter Luke Kennard before the trade cutoff. That vacancy immediately sparked speculation about potential buyout signings, with Los Angeles frequently linked to several intriguing names expected to hit the market.

Among the players rumored as possible Lakers targets were Lonzo Ball, Haywood Highsmith, and Cam Thomas — each seen as a potential fit for a team seeking additional backcourt depth and perimeter scoring. Given the Lakers’ position in a competitive Western Conference, many analysts expected Pelinka to pursue a veteran who could contribute immediately.

Instead, the organization opted for continuity and internal development. Rather than adding an outside player, the Lakers used their open roster spot to secure one of their most promising in-house performers: Kobe Bufkin.

Kobe Bufkin Earns Two-Year NBA Contract

According to ESPN insider Shams Charania, the Lakers signed Bufkin to a two-year contract that includes a team option for the 2026-27 season. The deal ensures that Los Angeles maintains control over the young guard’s future while providing him with an opportunity to prove himself at the NBA level.

Bufkin has been one of the standout players for the South Bay Lakers, Los Angeles’ G League affiliate, throughout the season. His consistent scoring output, efficient shooting, and defensive activity made him one of the most productive guards in the developmental league.

The 22-year-old previously earned a 10-day NBA contract with Los Angeles from January 13 to January 23. Although the Lakers did not immediately extend him with a second 10-day deal at that time, they continued to monitor his progress closely after sending him back to South Bay.

His performance since returning to the G League made the decision to bring him back to the NBA level an easy one.

Dominant G League Performance Forced Lakers’ Hand

Bufkin’s numbers in the G League this season have been nothing short of exceptional. Across 21 appearances, he averaged 26.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game, while also contributing nearly a block per contest. His efficiency has been particularly impressive, shooting 51.5% from the field and 43.1% from beyond the arc.

Those statistics placed him among the elite performers in the G League and made him a constant offensive threat for South Bay.

His recent stretch of games further highlighted his scoring ability and overall impact. In his last three outings before the signing, Bufkin posted 36, 41, and 29 points respectively. During that span, he connected on 18 three-pointers, recorded 16 assists, and added seven steals — showcasing his ability to influence games on both ends of the floor.

Bufkin has eclipsed the 40-point mark three times this season and currently leads the G League with an average of 27.7 points per game across 14 regular-season contests. He also ranks among the league’s best perimeter shooters, averaging 3.4 made three-pointers per game, which places him ninth overall.

Such production made it increasingly difficult for the Lakers to justify leaving him in the G League, especially given the risk that another NBA team could sign him away.

Why the Lakers Acted Quickly

After Bufkin’s initial 10-day stint with the Lakers ended, the team faced a potential dilemma. Although South Bay retained his G League player rights, Bufkin was on a standard G League contract, meaning he was free to sign with any NBA franchise willing to offer a standard deal, two-way contract, or another 10-day opportunity.

This type of situation has led to talent being poached in the past. In January, the Houston Rockets signed G League scoring leader Tristen Newton to a two-way contract after he had been playing within the Minnesota Timberwolves’ system. Similarly, in 2024, the Memphis Grizzlies signed Scotty Pippen Jr. following his breakout performances with South Bay, eventually developing him into a legitimate NBA rotation contributor.

The Lakers clearly did not want to risk losing Bufkin in a similar fashion. By acting quickly and offering him a multi-year contract, Pelinka ensured the organization retained control of a player who has shown significant promise.

Bufkin’s Initial NBA Minutes Showed Potential

During his brief NBA stint in January, Bufkin appeared in four games for Los Angeles. While his counting stats were modest — averaging 3.0 points and 1.3 rebounds in 11.3 minutes per game — those numbers do not fully reflect his potential impact.

He was used primarily in short bursts and rarely received extended playing time alongside the team’s core rotation players. Despite the limited opportunities, Bufkin displayed flashes of defensive versatility, energy, and positional flexibility.

His most notable performance came in a January 17 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. In that game, Bufkin logged 22 minutes and finished with nine points on 3-of-8 shooting, including a made three-pointer. He also contributed an assist and two blocks, demonstrating his ability to contribute beyond scoring.

The Lakers’ coaching staff saw enough in those minutes to believe that, with more consistent opportunities, Bufkin could develop into a valuable rotational piece.

Lakers Prioritize Internal Growth Over Buyout Market

By signing Bufkin, the Lakers have made it clear that they are not solely focused on short-term fixes through the buyout market. Instead, the organization is placing significant value on internal development and maintaining continuity within the roster.

This approach aligns with Pelinka’s recent roster-building philosophy, which has emphasized balancing veteran star power with emerging young talent. With championship aspirations still intact, the Lakers appear committed to building sustainable depth rather than relying exclusively on midseason veteran additions.

Bufkin’s signing represents a calculated gamble on potential rather than a guaranteed immediate impact. However, his scoring ability, efficiency, and defensive upside suggest he could carve out a meaningful role if given the opportunity.

As the buyout market continues to evolve, the Lakers may still evaluate external options. But for now, the decision to secure Kobe Bufkin signals confidence in the players already within the organization — and in a young guard who has steadily proven he belongs on an NBA roster.