Outside the 15-man NBA roster, the Lakers are allowed to have three additional two-way contract slots. However, the developmental arm of an NBA team usually casts a wider net, with the team's G League affiliate used to keep talented players within their system, allowing for development and potentially providing an NBA opportunity if one arises.

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick compared the Marcus Smart signing to when he signed with the L.A. Clippers

“Dončić being just 26 gives the Lakers a far longer timeline to build a championship-contending team, but that doesn't mean they can slow down and take their time. Dončić told Lakers president Rob Pelinka and coach JJ Redick in May that he's not interested in taking the slow approach in building a contender,” CBS Sports’ Jasmyn Wimbish wrote.

James has been assigned to Los Angeles's G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, and he will be a full participant in practice. The practice will include 5-on-5 play so that James can get his feet under him as he works towards a season debut, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.

Luka Dončić and the Lakers produced a 7-3 record to start the season but can that success continue with ongoing injuries? Here's the latest.

Luka Doncic missed the game due to lower left leg contusion injury management, while Reaves was sidelined with right groin soreness

Luka Doncic is enjoying playing alongside this Los Angeles Lakers roster, even with injuries leading to shorthanded wins.

ESPN’s Dave McMenamin shares a key injury update on LeBron James as the Los Angeles Lakers inch closer to his return.

He’s set himself up to get paid handsomely, and according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, he could be in line for a massive extension worth $114.5 million over four seasons.

"The South Bay Lakers plan to acquire former Atlanta Hawks guard Kobe Bufkin, sources told ESPN," Dave McMenamin wrote on X. "Bufkin was the No. 15 pick in the 2023 draft out of the University of Michigan. Bufkin was traded from ATL to BKN and entered the G League pool after being waived last month."

Los Angeles is seeing Austin Reaves hit star status. A trade for Daniel Gafford could give the Lakers the rim protection to contend.