Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Lakers Sign Former Mavericks Center to Boost Frontcourt Defense

Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Lakers have made an addition to their 2025-26 roster with a new signing on Monday. The 17-time NBA Champions officially signed center Kylor Kelley, aiming for depth and a boost in frontcourt defense. The 27-year-old athlete came through an excellent performance in the NBA G League. Kelley established himself as one of the best rim protectors in the G league.

The Los Angeles Lakers have signed center Kylor Kelley. pic.twitter.com/cmUl5Qtb8I
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) August 26, 2025

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Who is Kylor Kelley? Will Lakers Get Advantage from His G League Performance?

Last season, Kelley played for the New Orleans Pelicans and Dallas Mavericks, averaging 3.1 points and 3.5 rebounds in 11.5 minutes per game. Despite his short sample size, he demonstrated potential to contribute in the NBA. He had a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds for the Mavericks in one game which proves his ability on the big stage.

Kelley featured in 108 games in the G league for the South Bay Lakers, averaging 8.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks. Last season, Kelley looked more improved player in the development league as he averaged 11.5 points on 68.2% shooting, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game. He also participated in the preseason and played for the affiliates of the Celtics, Raptors, and Spurs.

Block Party…Kylor Kelley style 👋#SBLakers pic.twitter.com/sKHnrro8tJ
— South Bay Lakers (@SouthBayLakers) December 1, 2024

Kylor Kelley earned a spot on the NBA G League All-Defensive Team, crowning his ability to protect the paint and intimidate opponents. He also gained international experience, playing for clubs in Canada, Denmark, and England. His college career started at Oregon State (2018–20), where he gained notoriety for his defensive impact.

Kylor Kelley’s arrival could be a strategic move for the Lakers. With the arrival of DeAndre Ayton and the renewal of Jaxson Hayes, the team’s center is far from deep. Therefore, having an athletic center and a block specialist could relieve the defense in the future and give coach JJ Redick more options.

Lakers updated training camp roster after signing Kylor Kelley

They now have 5 players under exhibit-10 deals that could be competing for the team's final two-way contract. Including Eric Dixon, RJ Davis, Arthur Kaluma, Augustus Marciulionis, and Kylor Kelley.

Who's your pick? pic.twitter.com/LtWkVZU1Zq
— JSM (@JSMonYT) August 27, 2025

It’s still unclear whether the player will have an immediate spot in the main rotation or whether he’ll alternate minutes between the NBA and the G League. However, his profile fits well with the philosophy of protecting the rim and playing energetically in limited minutes on the court. Kelley could become a valuable asset to the Los Angeles roster, which stars LeBron James and Luka Doncic.

Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

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A native of Jaipur, Rajasthan, journalist, and a complete soccer and basketball fan, he found the huge interest with basketball by watching videos of Allen Iverson and Tony Parker, but fell head over heels in love with the sport during the Warriors’ championship era (2015-2018). A sports game addict since his late PS1, he’s also passionate about the Eagles, Inter Miami and the Fever. He’s fortunate to have seen all his favorite teams win championships. He also has a special love for cricket and football (soccer), where he is a fan of Royal Challengers Bangalore and Barcelona.