The Los Angeles Lakers have dealt with injuries throughout the early portion of the season. Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves have both missed time, while LeBron James still has yet to make his season debut as he works his way back from a back injury. Gabe Vincent, who has been sidelined for 11 straight games with an ankle issue, has finally been cleared to return to action tonight.
While the NBA roster has struggled to stay healthy, the organization’s G League affiliate has stepped up in a major way. The South Bay Lakers have showcased impressive depth behind the standout play of former Gonzaga star Drew Timme, who was named the G League Player of the Week for the period of Nov. 7–16. During that span, Timme helped lead South Bay to three wins while averaging 30 points, seven rebounds and 4.7 assists per game.
Timme built a national reputation at Gonzaga, where he became one of the most decorated players in program history. He earned All-America honors three times and won WCC Player of the Year twice while helping the Bulldogs remain a perennial title contender. Since turning pro, Timme has played for four G League teams: the Wisconsin Herd, Stockton Kings, Long Island Nets and now South Bay.
His strong showing last season with Long Island led to a 10-day contract with the Brooklyn Nets, where he impressed in limited action. In nine NBA appearances, he averaged 12.1 points and 7.2 rebounds, showing he could produce at the highest level.
If Timme continues his elite start with South Bay, he may soon draw serious consideration for another NBA call-up — potentially even from the injury-stricken Lakers themselves.
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- Suns acquire 20 PPG scorer from G-League
- Jaime Jaquez Jr. Emerging as early Sixth Man of the Year candidate for Heat