Kobe Bufkin found a new NBA home with the New Orleans Pelicans, but his departure is unlikely to have any impact on the Los Angeles Lakers' plans for next season.
The Los Angeles Lakers lost another free agent over the weekend in guard Kobe Bufkin, who agreed to a one-year contract with the New Orleans Pelicans, according to HoopsHype's Michael Scotto.
While Bufkin impressed during Summer League in Las Vegas, his departure does little to change L.A.'s outlook entering the 2026-27 season.
Bufkin, the No. 15 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, spent last season splitting time between the Lakers and the South Bay Lakers after arriving in L.A.
He appeared in 16 NBA games, averaging 2.9 points, 0.8 rebounds and 0.6 assists while shooting 30% from the field and 19.2% from 3-point range.
Although his NBA opportunities were limited, Bufkin consistently showed why he remains an intriguing young prospect whenever he was assigned to the G League.
G League Success Hasn't Translated to NBA Role
Bufkin was one of the South Bay Lakers' top performers throughout the G League season. In 17 games, he averaged 24.8 points, 4.4 assists and 3.7 rebounds while shooting an efficient 51.2% from the field and 41.9% from beyond the arc.
Those numbers highlighted his offensive talent and ability to create for himself and others. He also carried that momentum into Summer League, averaging 21.3 points for New Orleans before earning an NBA contract.
Still, the Lakers never appeared to have a significant opening for Bufkin entering training camp. The organization continued reshaping its backcourt throughout the offseason, leaving little room for another developmental guard on the roster.
Instead of waiting for another opportunity in L.A., Bufkin secured a chance to compete for minutes with the Pelicans, where his Summer League production helped him earn a new deal.
Lakers Already Have Depth at Guard
From the Lakers' perspective, Bufkin's departure is more about roster flexibility than losing a key contributor.
Feb 10, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bufkin (18) controls the ball against the San Antonio Spurs during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn ImagesL.A.'s guard rotation already features Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, Collin Sexton and Quentin Grimes, while Bronny James continues his development and the arrival of first-rounder Cameron Carr.
The Lakers also have younger wings and guards competing for reserve roles, making it increasingly difficult for Bufkin to carve out consistent minutes on this roster.
The front office also prioritized adding size and defense this offseason by acquiring Walker Kessler and signing veterans such as Kevon Looney while continuing to build around Doncic following LeBron James' departure.
Feb 10, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bufkin (18) controls the ball against the San Antonio Spurs during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn ImagesBufkin's upside was evident during his G League stint, but his production never translated into meaningful NBA minutes with the Lakers. His departure opens another roster spot while allowing him to pursue a larger opportunity.
For Bufkin, New Orleans offers a fresh start and the chance to revive the promise that made him a first-round pick. For the Lakers, it represents another expected offseason move as the organization continues focusing on players projected to contribute immediately during what it hopes will be a deep playoff run.
