The South Bay Lakers plan to add guard Kobe Bufkin as he enters the G League player pool, per ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.
Whether they claim him directly off waivers or acquire his rights after another team does, he’s expected to join L.A.’s affiliate.
Bufkin, the 15th pick in 2023, has struggled with injuries since entering the league – including a fractured thumb, sprained toe, and season-ending shoulder surgery last December.
He played just 27 games for Atlanta before being traded to Brooklyn, where he was waived in a roster crunch.
Despite limited NBA action, Bufkin flashed upside at Michigan and averaged 23.6 points and 5.9 assists in the G League in 2023–24.
If he proves healthy and productive with South Bay, he could earn another NBA look, and he remains eligible for a two-way contract.
Kobe Bufkin To Join Lakers’ G League Team https://t.co/SWjhnwpMY4 pic.twitter.com/taqSPcuGUj
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) November 13, 2025
