The Lakers front office is gearing up to sacrifice one of their reserves! Bronny James’ fans don’t need to worry. As a dead silent off-season progressed, the LA side finally made a move, with only weeks left for the new season. In a surprising update, the team has agreed to a deal with former Raptors center, Christian Koloko. And it slightly reduced the burden on Anthony Davis’ shoulders. However, at the same time, in order to accommodate the 7-footer into the roster, one has to make his way out. Who will miss out?

Why not Bronny? LeBron James’ 19-year-old son came into the fold amid all the criticism surrounding his collegiate performances and nepotism. Nevertheless, the young gun received a firm word of support from the team’s new coach JJ Redick during his introductory presser, where the debutant said, “Bronny has earned this through hard work.” 

On the other hand, a few Purple and Gold reserves will have shivers running down their spine, as they could be waived only days before the start of the season. Trevor Lane, a Lakers Insider, in his latest update, revealed the possible names that can be sacrificed. The Lakers Nation analyst listed Colin Castleton, Armel Traore, or Blake Hinson on the chopping block for Christian Koloko’s latest signing. Meanwhile, there isn’t any surety that the front office could only target the reserves. The team also has Jaxson Hayes and Christian Wood operating in the second unit, in an attempt to share Anthony Davis‘ labor.

Importantly, replacing Christian Koloko for either of these established frontcourt players would ultimately reduce the cap space. Nevertheless, looking back at the reserves again, only Colin Castleton has NBA experience while the other two are fresh out of college. Castleton played 16 games in his rookie season (2023-24), averaging 1.5 points, and also appeared for the G-League affiliate, South Bay Lakers, averaging just above 14 points alongside 9.8 rebounds. Looking at the experience, Castleton may have a slight upper hand.

Christian Koloko needs clearance to play for the Lakers

Even though Shams Charania broke the news of the uplifting update, there’s a twist in the tale. The last line of Charania’s trade update read, “Koloko is expected to have an opportunity for a role in Lakers frontcourt after he receives clearance from league’s fitness panel.” 

The Cameroonian big man suffered a respiratory condition before pulling himself out of the league following his rookie season (2022-23). After just playing 58 games, the doctors diagnosed a blood cot, and it eventually forced Christian Koloko to enter the NBA’s Fitness-To-Play Panel. Until he clears the panel’s medical tests, he can’t lace up his boots. Notably, Bronny James also had to get a clearance before declaring his draft because of the scary cardiac arrest in college.

Similarly, former Heat star, Chris Bosh also suffered a similar blood clot in his lungs and doctors removed it through surgery. However, months later, Bosh had another blood clot in his left calf. Unfortunately, the experts, this time, called it ‘the end’, forcing an abrupt career retirement in 2016.

So, unless and until Christian Koloko passes the medical clearance, the Lakers don’t have a 7-foot frontcourt weapon.

Before leaving, do watch the Dual Threat Show hosted by BG12 where Bulldogs’ Asia Avinger details her experience with Kobe Bryant, her WNBA ROTY picks, and more in the video below.