The Lakers have solidified the 21-man roster that will join them for September training camp. LA signed 27-year-old big man Kylor Kelley to a training camp deal Monday. They bring in a familiar name and add some intrigue to who will occupy the open two-way spot.
Lakers Ink Defensive-Minded 7-Footer to Training Camp Deal
Kelley’s Brief NBA Stint Comes After G League Grind
Kelley recently enjoyed a brief cup of coffee in the NBA, but not before a four-year G League journey. The former Oregon State Center is a season removed from swatting a league-high 85 shots (2.9 per game), a mark that earned him All-Defensive Team honors. He played 32 games for the South Bay Lakers this season, averaging 11.5 points (68% FG), 7.3 rebounds, 2.4 blocks and 1.5 assists.
Amid his strong play, Kelley signed a two-way contract with the Dallas Mavericks in January. In Kelley’s first career start (Feb. 2 vs. Cleveland), he put up 12 points, 11 rebounds, an assist and a block. After the Mavs waived Kelley in March, the New Orleans Pelicans picked him up in April. All told, Kelley’s rookie year lasted 11 games (two starts), with averages of 3.1 points and 3.5 rebounds on 63% shooting from the field.
KYLOR KELLEY 🤯#SBLakers pic.twitter.com/5fsRSk3MBN
— South Bay Lakers (@SouthBayLakers) March 26, 2025
More Competition for Young Lakers
Kelley will be the latest Laker to compete for the lone vacant two-way contract spot. He and other young Lakers will hope to join Chris Mañon and Christian Koloko, who the team signed weeks ago. Although Kelley may have an edge with his NBA experience and familiarity with South Bay, he will need to put in the work to avoid the same fate as last season.
© Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
