The Los Angeles Lakers have made significant changes to their roster by waiving center Trey Jemison III, following the completion of the NBA summer league. The Lakers have opted to fill two of their two-way roster spots with promising players: center Christian Koloko, who had previously dealt with a blood clot issue, and undrafted rookie wing Chris Manon. Jemison, who averaged 2.6 points and 2.8 rebounds in 10.3 minutes per game last season, registered modest stats during the summer league, averaging just 0.7 points and 3.0 rebounds in 12.1 minutes.

This move reflects the Lakers' strategy to bolster their roster with players showing greater potential, which could be critical as they aim to improve their standings in the competitive Western Conference. The decision to waive Jemison, who had two seasons of NBA experience before joining the Lakers, signals a shift towards younger talent.

The Los Angeles Lakers have taken significant steps in enhancing their roster as the NBA season approaches. After securing former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart with a two-year contract, they added center Christian Koloko and wing Chris Manon to two-way contracts. Koloko, a second-round pick in the 2022 draft, missed the entire last season due to a blood clot issue but showed promise in the G League, averaging 14.8 points and 3.1 blocks. Manon, who played for the Golden State Warriors, demonstrated his capabilities during the summer league with averages of 11.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks.

These moves follow the Lakers' decision to waive guard Jordan Goodwin, suggesting that Manon may fill the role of a high-energy wing player the team aims to develop. With young talents like Bronny James displaying potential in the summer league and Darius Bazley showcasing his athleticism before injury, the Lakers appear to be focusing on a blend of experience and youth to enhance their competitive edge.

LeBron James has officially exercised his player option for the next season, while Dorian Finney-Smith has opted out, adding intrigue to the Los Angeles Lakers' roster decisions. Finney-Smith's future remains uncertain as he has become a key player following his acquisition in a trade last December, which could influence the team's approach in free agency.

The Lakers are also focused on player development, retaining Jordan Goodwin from the G League and offering a qualifying deal to Christian Koloko, who showed potential as a two-way player. Goodwin, averaging 5.6 points and 1 steal per game, impressed with his hustle and defense. Koloko, despite facing injury challenges, has the capability to contribute on both ends of the floor. The futures of these players will play a crucial role in shaping the Lakers' strategic direction moving forward.

Draymond Green's defensive prowess continues to impress as he played a crucial role in the Golden State Warriors’ narrow 109-106 playoff victory over the Houston Rockets, pushing the series lead to 3-1. Despite scoring only six points, Green's defensive statistics were remarkable, boasting seven defensive boards and a +17 plus-minus rating, tying him for the best in the game. His most notable moment came in the game's dying seconds, where he held off Alperen Sengun during a critical possession. Steve Kerr, the Warriors' coach, expressed unwavering confidence in Green, calling him the best defender he's ever seen.

Green's impact has been pivotal throughout the 2024-25 season, anchoring a defensive unit that ranked among the top ten in the NBA. His accolades, including being a one-time Defensive Player of the Year and an eight-time All-NBA Defensive Team member, substantiate Kerr's high regard. The Warriors’ success heavily relies on Green's defensive skills; his ability to guard elite players at crucial moments is unmatched, as demonstrated in this latest playoff matchup.