Lakers Cut Preseason Standout Before Trade Deadline
As Lakers fans anticipate significant roster improvements, the front office remains cautious as the trade deadline approaches. Despite the team proving all season that they lack the tools to contend for a championship, GM Rob Pelinka seems content with maintaining the status quo.
Instead of bold moves, the Lakers are opting for minor adjustments, much to the dismay of fans. On Wednesday evening, Los Angeles released guard Quincy Olivari.
NBA Update: Quincy Olivari Waived by Lakers
The 23-year-old combo guard emerged as a bright spot for the Lakers during training camp and preseason. After going undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft, the former Xavier star impressed the Lakers enough to earn a two-way contract.
In the preseason, Olivari shined with a standout performance against the Warriors, scoring 22 points on 5/9 shooting from three, along with seven rebounds and two assists. He carried that momentum into the G League, where he averaged 17.2 points while shooting over 40% from beyond the arc.
With the Lakers in dire need of shooting—especially following D’Angelo Russell’s departure—Olivari could have been a valuable depth piece. The team’s thin backcourt, which relies heavily on Austin Reaves, might have benefited from retaining Olivari as a backup option.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Olivari is expected to draw interest on the free-agent market. A young player with scoring ability and potential will likely get more NBA opportunities, and fans hope Olivari finds success in his next chapter.