LOS ANGELES, 11 February 2026 – In a swift move following the NBA trade deadline, the Los Angeles Lakers have officially integrated guard Kobe Bufkin into their active roster. The former first-round pick, who has spent the majority of the current season dominating the G League with the South Bay Lakers, was signed to a multi-year NBA contract this past weekend to fill the team’s 15th roster spot.
Latest Updates: Bufkin Enters Starting Lineup
As of today, Wednesday, 11 February 2026, Kobe Bufkin has been thrust into a primary role for the Lakers. Due to a significant injury crisis involving starters Luka Doncic (hamstring), LeBron James (foot), and Austin Reaves (calf), head coach JJ Redick has named Bufkin to the starting five for tonight’s matchup. This marks Bufkin’s first NBA start of the season and comes just hours after the team opted to sign him to a standard contract rather than seeking a veteran on the buyout market.
Coach Redick expressed confidence in the young guard, noting that the Lakers were “happy to get Kobe on the NBA roster” after several other teams reportedly showed interest in poaching him from the G League. The deal is a two-year contract, with the second year (2026-27) serving as a team option.
Player Profile and Professional History
Kobe Bufkin entered the NBA as a highly touted prospect out of the University of Michigan, known for his aggressive physicality and rapid improvement as a perimeter shooter. After being drafted 15th overall by the Atlanta Hawks in 2023, Bufkin spent two seasons in Georgia before a series of trades led him to the Brooklyn Nets in September 2025, and eventually to the Lakers’ organisation.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kobe Bufkin |
| Birthdate | 21 September 2003 |
| Height | 6′ 4″ (193 cm) |
| Weight | 195 lbs (88 kg) |
| Draft Status | 15th Overall, 2023 NBA Draft (Atlanta Hawks) |
| College | Michigan |
| Current Team | Los Angeles Lakers |
| Wingspan | 6′ 7.75″ |
Public Insight and Scouting Report
Scouts have long praised Bufkin for his efficiency at the rim, where he shot nearly 70% during his collegiate career. While his three-point shooting was initially a concern, he improved from a 22% shooter to over 45% by the end of his time at Michigan. Public opinion among Lakers fans has been largely positive regarding his recent signing, with many viewing him as a necessary “project” player who provides much-needed wing depth and defensive energy.
However, some analysts suggest the signing was a “rush” move by the front office to prevent losing him to a rival team, as interest from franchises like the Indiana Pacers had been reported prior to his commitment to Los Angeles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the terms of Kobe Bufkin’s new contract?
Kobe Bufkin signed a two-year deal with the Los Angeles Lakers on 8 February 2026. The contract includes a team option for the 2026-27 season, allowing the Lakers to retain his rights or release him based on his performance over the coming months.
Why did the Atlanta Hawks trade Kobe Bufkin?
The Hawks traded Bufkin to the Brooklyn Nets in September 2025 primarily for cash considerations. This move followed a period where Bufkin struggled to crack the regular rotation in Atlanta and the team sought to clear a roster spot for other targets.
What is Kobe Bufkin’s playing style?
Bufkin is a versatile guard known for his “downhill” scoring ability and physicality. He is an effective shot-creator who does not rely heavily on assists to score at the rim. Defensively, his 6′ 7.75″ wingspan allows him to guard multiple positions on the perimeter.