Lakers re-sign two-way demon to a new deal.
The Los Angeles Lakers have retained one of their top developmental players, re-signing guard Chris Mañon to a two-way contract as they continue building depth for the 2026-27 season.
NBA insider Michael Scotto of Hoopshype first reported the agreement before the Lakers officially announced the move. Mañon returns after spending his rookie season splitting time between L.A. and its G League affiliate, the Coachella Valley Lakers.
Mañon's Impact with the Organization
Although his NBA opportunities were limited, the 24-year-old showed enough promise to earn another chance within the organization. Mañon appeared in nine games for the Lakers during the 2025-26 season, averaging 0.8 points, 1.1 rebounds and 0.3 assists in 5.1 minutes per game.
His biggest impact came in the G League, where he established himself as one of the league's elite perimeter defenders. Mañon was named to the 2025-26 All-NBA G League Defensive Team after finishing second in Defensive Player of the Year voting.
During the G League Tip-Off Tournament, the former Vanderbilt and Cornell guard averaged a league-leading 2.6 steals and 1.5 blocks over 13 games while also posting 14.8 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.0 assists.
He continued his defensive dominance during the regular season, averaging a team-high 1.9 steals while adding 10.3 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 33 games.
Mañon consistently disrupted opposing offenses throughout the year.
He recorded 27 multi-steal performances, including 16 games with at least three steals, nine with four or more and five contests with at least five steals. He also registered multiple blocks in 10 games and set a career high with six steals against Stockton on March 24.
His combination of defensive instincts, versatility and relentless effort made him one of the G League's premier defenders and earned him recognition across the league.
Chris Manon (30) looks on during the first half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Crypto.com Arena.Lakers Player Development
The Lakers emphasized player development in their exit interview with the media last season, and bringing Mañon back gives the organization another young player already familiar with its system.
While Mañon will likely begin the year with the Coachella Valley Lakers, another strong defensive campaign could earn him additional NBA minutes.
L.A. has already made several significant roster moves this summer, but retaining developmental talent remains an important part of the franchise's long-term plans. By bringing back Mañon, the Lakers are keeping one of their best young defenders in the organization as he continues working toward a permanent spot on an NBA roster.
