The Los Angeles Lakers are entering a difficult stretch of the season, scheduled to play five games in the next seven days.
With that in mind, Los Angeles made a roster move to add reinforcements ahead of Tuesday's matchup against the Atlanta Hawks.
According to Shams Charania of ESPN, the Lakers have signed Kobe Bufkin to a 10-day contract.
Despite his status as a top-15 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, Bufkin hasn't seen much playing time in the NBA.
In two seasons with the Atlanta Hawks, Bufkin suited up in just 27 games, averaging fewer than 13 minutes per game in each year. In those minutes, Bufkin has averaged five points, two rebounds and 1.6 assists.
Although he signed a 10-day deal with the Grizzlies earlier this season, he never suited up for Memphis.
Now a Laker, Bufkin will have the chance to prove himself worthy of minutes, using the audition to perhaps earn a contract with the Lakers or another team for the remainder of the season.
Bufkin produced at a high level in seven games for the South Bay Lakers (Los Angeles' G League affiliate), averaging 24.7 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.6 assists while shooting over 43% from 3-point range.
That said, Bufkin isn't expected to command a large role, just a reserve to fill in the gaps amidst Los Angeles' injuries and difficult schedule.
Following Tuesday's game against the Hawks, the Lakers will face the Charlotte Hornets at home on Thursday.
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