Meet the Lakers New DEFENSIVE WEAPON to REPLACE Jordan Goodwin! | Lakers Sign Chris Manon + Koloko!
The Los Angeles Lakers have just pulled the trigger on a pair of game-changing signings that nobody saw coming, inking 7-footer Christian Koloko and rising defensive dynamo Chris Manon to two-way contracts in moves that could completely reshape their championship aspirations.
The Koloko Comeback Story
Christian Koloko’s return to Purple and Gold represents one of the most intriguing second chances in recent Lakers history. The towering center, who battled back from a devastating blood clot condition that sidelined him for an entire season, proved he belongs on the biggest stage by appearing in 37 games for the Lakers last season.
But it was his electrifying Summer League performance that truly caught everyone’s attention. Koloko dominated the paint with jaw-dropping averages of approximately 7 points, 4 rebounds, and nearly 3 blocks per game in just 17.5 minutes of action—numbers that translate to elite rim protection when extrapolated to starter minutes.
The 7-footer’s defensive prowess and shot-blocking ability align perfectly with the Lakers’ desperate search for interior presence, making this signing a potential masterstroke for a franchise hungry for another championship run.
The Manon Mystery: From Undrafted to Lakers
Perhaps even more shocking is the Lakers’ acquisition of Chris Manon, an undrafted gem who turned heads during his stint with the Golden State Warriors’ Summer League squad. The versatile forward’s journey from Vanderbilt to potentially suiting up alongside LeBron James reads like a Hollywood script.
Manon’s defensive intensity became his calling card during Summer League play, where he showcased elite point-of-attack defense and an uncanny ability to generate game-changing defensive plays. His impressive stat line of 11.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.6 blocks per game in Las Vegas proved he belongs at the professional level.
Standing at 6-foot-5 with a 215-pound frame, Manon brings the high-energy wing play that head coach JJ Redick desperately needs to implement his defensive philosophy.
Strategic Masterclass or Desperate Gamble?
These signings represent more than just roster filler—they’re a calculated bet on potential that could pay massive dividends. With both players splitting time between the Lakers and their G League affiliate South Bay Lakers, the organization maintains maximum flexibility while developing two promising talents.
The timing couldn’t be more perfect, coming on the heels of the Lakers’ signing of veteran defensive anchor Marcus Smart. This defensive-minded approach suggests the front office is serious about building a championship-caliber roster around their aging superstars.
Industry insiders are already buzzing about whether these under-the-radar moves could be the secret weapon the Lakers need to make a deep playoff run. With Koloko’s rim protection and Manon’s defensive versatility, the Purple and Gold might have just assembled the most underestimated defensive duo in the league.
The Lakers have quietly stacked their roster with intention, and these two-way additions could be the missing pieces that transform a good team into a great one.