Former Lakers prospect Kobe Bufkin signs one-year deal with Pelicans
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Former Los Angeles Lakers player Kobe Bufkin has signed a one-year contract with the New Orleans Pelicans.
- Bufkin, a former first-round pick, averaged 2.9 points in 16 games for the Lakers last season.
- He was waived by the Lakers before the playoffs but impressed the Pelicans during the summer league.
Former Lakers guard Kobe Bufkin has found a new home in the NBA, signing a one-year deal with the New Orleans Pelicans.
Bufkin, originally selected 15th overall in the 2023 NBA draft by the Atlanta Hawks, played 16 games for the Lakers last season. He averaged 7.4 minutes per game, contributing 2.9 points, 0.8 rebounds, and 0.6 assists. His shooting efficiency was notably low, with a 30.0% field goal percentage and 19.2% from three-point range.
The Lakers initially signed Bufkin to a two-year contract. However, the team decided to waive him before the playoffs to make room for guard Nick Smith Jr. Despite his release from the Lakers, Bufkin showcased his potential during the NBA Summer League, playing for the Pelicans and earning himself this new contract.
His move to New Orleans offers a fresh start for the 22-year-old prospect, who will look to revitalize his career with his new team.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.