Chris Mañon is absolutely tearing it up in Lakers training camp, putting on a “fantastic” show in live play and scrimmages over the last two days. The guard-wing hybrid has been getting solid exposure with the “purple team” specifically to help balance scoring, and it sounds like he’s making the most of every single minute.
Young Guns Are Grabbing Attention Early
It isn’t just Mañon lighting things up, though he’s clearly the standout. Coach Redick was hyping up Arthur Kaluma and AK Okereke too, noting how physical they’ve been within that wing group during the first two days of camp. He sees Kaluma and Okereke as those crucial 3-and-D wings, fitting right into the Lakers’ system. Redick is really bullish on the young talent, even admitting there’s a “little bit of redundancy” with their two-way guys this year, which he totally sees as a positive. Why? Because if they can develop guys like Adou Thiero, Cam Carr, and the others into “functional rotation NBA players over the next 12 to 24 months, it changes our ceiling.” That’s a massive statement about what these young guys could mean for the team’s long-term aspirations.
More Practice, More Clarity, More Bronny
The preseason is a game shorter this year, down to five contests from six last season. Redick isn’t thrilled about one less game, but he’s owning the silver lining: more practice time. Last year saw only six real practices, but this year? They’re looking at “at least 12.” That extra time allows them to “space things out a little bit more, get these guys more live play, really take our time with teaching.” And what does all that extra teaching time mean? More opportunity for the coaching staff and the players themselves to define roles. This is huge, especially for someone like Bronny James. It’s wild to think he’s only in his third season, but he’s already the third-longest tenured Laker behind Austin Reaves and Jarred Vanderbilt. Bronny’s not just battling for a rotation spot; he’s also stepping up, becoming a leader for a locker room full of fresh faces. He’s embracing it, too. “Crazy, right? AR keeps calling me a vet. I’m like, ‘I guess,’” James said. “I come in every day trying to get better and better myself as a point guard. Just taking those steps and encouraging my guys and getting them in the right spot.” That’s the kind of leadership and dedication you want to see from a young player taking on more responsibility.
The Lakers hit the road in just two days to Sacramento for their first preseason game on Monday. With roles still being hammered out and young talent like Mañon trying to solidify their spots, that opener is going to be a must-watch to see who continues to stand out.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Silver Screen and Roll.
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