Christian Koloko, a former big man for the Toronto Raptors, is interested in making a return to the NBA, and Shams Charania reports that the Los Angeles Lakers are the front-runners to sign him. The Raptors, Los Angeles Clippers, and Phoenix Suns are among the teams interested in Koloko, who requires clearance from the league’s Fitness-to-Play Panel before being signed. Koloko, a second-round pick in 2022, spent just 58 games in his rookie season with the Raptors. Despite his promising play, especially defensively, the organisation dismissed him in January to make room for the blockbuster signing of Pascal Siakam.
Many were taken aback by the decision until they learnt that Koloko had been submitted to the Fitness-to-Play Panel and was facing blood clots that could end his career. That meant that until he was cleared, he could not play or even practise. The Raptors made the decision to move on since Koloko’s situation was so unclear. Koloko has not yet received the go-ahead to compete, but in the interim, he is free to sign with a team.
Per the collective bargaining agreement, the Fitness-to-Play Panel shall “consist of one (1) physician appointed by the NBA, one (1) physician appointed by the Players Association, and one (1) physician appointed by agreement of the first two (2) physicians.” Each panel then operates by majority vote on whether the player can return to action.
Koloko looks to be joining the Lakers, who are in need of depth in the frontcourt, if he is approved. MORE: A source said Anthony Davis still desires to play next to another big man since the Lakers may be interested in trading for him. The Lakers have Christian Wood, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jaxson Hayes, and Rui Hachimura as alternatives to Anthony Davis. Out of that bunch, Hayes is the only real centre; the others are not 100%. A foot issue may prevent Vanderbilt from being ready for training camp, Wood had knee surgery a few days ago that will keep him out for at least two months, and Hachimura had to withdraw from the Olympics early due to a calf strain.
To put it briefly, Koloko is a low-risk, high-reward option if the Lakers need some paint help. Additionally, Koloko would be a good fit for Davis’ desire to play next to another big man, according to a recent story that surfaced earlier this week.
Leave a Reply