The Los Angeles Lakers were active following the 2024 NBA draft by adding former Pittsburgh sharpshooter Blake Hinson to their roster. Additionally, they secured two undrafted free agents: Quincy Olivari from Xavier and Armel Traore from France, both seen as having significant potential.
According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania on June 27, 2024, Hinson, a sharpshooter from Pittsburgh, agreed to a two-way deal with the Lakers. He was a standout player in the ACC, averaging 18.5 points and 4.4 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 42.1% from long range during the 2023-24 season. Standing at 6-foot-8 and 230 pounds, Hinson will compete for a spot on the Lakers’ roster next season despite concerns about his size and position in the NBA.
NBA.com’s scouting report noted Hinson’s potential as a versatile scorer capable of playing at both forward positions due to his shooting ability, though his defense and passing skills need refinement. His size suggests he may be more suited as a stretch-four off the bench in the NBA.
Heading into the offseason, much attention surrounded LeBron James’ future with the Lakers. The team’s hiring of LeBron’s podcast co-host JJ Redick as head coach and the drafting of LeBron’s son, Bronny James, suggested a compelling case for LeBron to stay in Los Angeles either by opting into his current deal or re-signing in free agency.
