In need of center depth after an underwhelming start from Kevon Looney, the Lakers have gone the route of a two-way signing for potential help.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Lakers have agreed to a two-way contract with Lawson Lovering, a big man who spent last season with the Grizzlies, splitting time with the parent club and their G League affiliate.
To free up a two-way roster spot, the team is waiving AK Okereke.
Lovering played just two NBA games with the Grizzlies, the better of which being an 11-point, 11-rebound showing in a late-February win over the Jazz. That came while on a 10-day contract which the Grizzlies did not re-up after it expired.
In 30 games with the Memphis Hustle, Lovering averaged 7.7 points, 7.1 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game while shooting 59.2% from the field. He did not take a three and was 25-61 (41%) at the free throw line.
Lovering signed a training camp deal with the Grizzlies before being waived. The Lakers swooped him up before he could rejoin their G League roster.
Okereke was always the likeliest of the Lakers’ two-way signings to be cut. A project player, he didn’t flash nearly as much in Summer League or during limited preseason minutes. Lovering also has the makings of being a project player, but he also fills more of a need.
While the Lakers need a backup center, the trade market likely won’t offer a solution in the near future. Signing him doesn’t mean he’ll automatically play, but it wouldn’t be a surprise for the team to try something.
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