Christian Koloko, Lakers
After a challenging loss to the Phoenix Suns on Monday night, the Los Angeles Lakers received some reassuring news about the health of one of their promising young players.
Lakers’ Christian Koloko cleared to practice after serious health scare
On Tuesday, ESPN Senior NBA Insider Shams Charania reported that Lakers center Christian Koloko has been medically cleared to practice after being sidelined for over 18 months due to a serious blood clot issue (via Lake Show Life’s Maxwell Ogden).
Koloko’s athleticism and defense could be a major asset for the Lakers
Koloko is a dynamic big man, excelling at fast breaks and finishing strong at the rim. Standing at 7-foot-1, he can slice through the lane and dunk over defenders with ease. During his 2022-23 season with the Toronto Raptors, he averaged 3.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, and notably one block in just 13.8 minutes per game. Although not a perimeter threat, the 24-year-old’s offensive rebounding almost matched his defensive work, with averages of 1.4 offensive and 1.5 defensive rebounds. His per 36 minutes stats of 8.2 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 0.9 steals would be a welcome addition to Lakers head coach JJ Redick’s second unit.
The Lakers’ frontcourt could open up opportunities for Koloko
The Cameroonian center’s rebounding and shot-blocking abilities, paired with his talent for finishing at the rim, should allow him to excel in the Lakers’ interior-focused system alongside elite playmakers LeBron James and D’Angelo Russell. With Anthony Davis starting at center and Jaxson Hayes backing him up, there’s room for Koloko to establish a role, especially since Davis prefers playing power forward. If Koloko returns in top form and improves on his rookie year, he may secure meaningful playing time in the 2024-25 season.
Also Mentioned: Anthony Davis, Christian Koloko, D’Angelo Russell, Jaxson Hayes, JJ Redick, LeBron James