The Los Angeles Lakers are making some strategic moves this offseason. Rob Pelinka and the Lakers' front office are looking to build a contender this season. On Monday, Shams Charania of ESPN broke the news that the Lakers are signing undrafted forward Chris Manon.
The Los Angeles Lakers plan to sign 7-footer Christian Koloko and forward Chris Manon on two-way NBA contracts, sources tell ESPN. Manon, undrafted out of Vanderbilt, played for the Warriors in California and Las Vegas summer leagues. Koloko played 37 games for L.A. last season.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 21, 2025
Lakers Sign Chris Manon to Two-Way NBA Contract
Manon had a strong 2025 NBA Summer League showing with the Golden State Warriors, averaging 11 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and blocking 1.4 shots per game. He has multifaceted strengths in his game. He is a solid scorer who can go out and get a bucket when needed. Manon's Swiss-army knife style must have stood out to the Lakers, who are desperately looking to add more athleticism and versatility.
Despite him playing for their rivals in the Summer League, the Lakers signed Manon to a two-way contract. His highlights below from this year's NBA Summer League show just what he can do on the court.
Chris Manon | New Lakers 2-Way Signing
— Lakers Legacy (@LakersLegacyPod) July 21, 2025
Vegas SL (18mpg):
11 pts | 5 reb | 2 ast | 1.4 stls | 1.6 blks
• Looks to be a Goodwin Proxy.
• Guard w/ Good Size who can’t shoot, but plays Good Defense.
• One Aspect he has that’s different: Athletic Pop.
pic.twitter.com/KQBTOv43JK
The Lakers recently waived center Trey Jemison III, guards Shake Milton and Jordan Goodwin. In addition to Marcus Smart, the Lakers signed center Christian Koloko and Chris Manon to two-way deals with those open spots.
In Manon's case, he will have a chance to develop into a solid NBA pro by playing with the South Bay Lakers in the G League. When called up to the Lakers, he will be mentored by players like LeBron James and Luka Doncic. This will do wonders for Manon's development and confidence, as his skill set could even have him seeing time on the court with the Lakers this upcoming season.
The Lakers' strategy is clear. They are looking to develop young talent. In the same breath, players like Manon could contribute right away for the team off the bench. Whether or not Manon sees significant time on the floor this season remains to be seen.