As the Los Angeles Lakers wrap up a mostly quiet 2025 offseason, their attention turns to the Summer League—an increasingly crucial proving ground for overlooked talent. Though the main roster appears set with a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young players like Dalton Knecht and Jalen Hood-Schifino, two undrafted standouts from the 2025 Summer League could force the Lakers’ front office to reconsider their depth chart: forward Darius Brown II and center Efe Abogidi.
Darius Brown II, a 6-foot-2 guard out of Utah State, has quickly emerged as one of the most poised and intelligent players on the Summer League roster. Known for his court vision and lockdown perimeter defense, Brown has impressed with his ability to control the game’s tempo. Over five Summer League games, he’s averaged 11.6 points, 6.2 assists, and 2.0 steals while shooting an efficient 45% from the field and 37% from beyond the arc. His maturity and leadership—honed through five college seasons—set him apart from younger peers. Brown doesn’t force plays; he reads defenses like a veteran, sets up shooters in rhythm, and rarely turns the ball over. For a Lakers team that struggled with bench consistency and perimeter defense in 2024–25, Brown could be a perfect low-cost rotational piece, especially in the two-way or backup point guard role.
Efe Abogidi, on the other hand, brings raw athleticism and elite rim protection. The 6-foot-10 Nigerian big man, who played with the G League Ignite before declaring for the draft, has made a name for himself with his energy, vertical pop, and shot-blocking instincts. Averaging 9.8 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game during the Summer League, Abogidi has shown flashes of becoming a Clint Capela-type role player—highly valuable for a Lakers team looking to preserve Anthony Davis during the grind of an 82-game season. His timing on pick-and-roll defense and ability to switch onto smaller guards has raised eyebrows among scouts and fans alike. If the Lakers decide to waive a veteran minimum big, Abogidi could earn a standard or two-way contract.
The Lakers’ front office, led by Rob Pelinka and new head coach JJ Redick, has emphasized player development and smart roster construction. With a limited cap and few trade assets, unearthing rotational players from the undrafted pool is critical. Both Brown and Abogidi bring specialized skill sets that fill current roster gaps—perimeter defense and backup center minutes.
Though training camp invites and G League assignments are the most likely immediate outcomes, don’t be surprised if one or both players crack the roster by midseason. The Lakers have a history of turning undrafted talent—like Austin Reaves and Alex Caruso—into core contributors. Brown and Abogidi could be next in line, especially if injuries or inconsistency open up opportunities. Their Summer League performances have been more than just flashes—they’ve been statements.
