NBA Trade News: Los Angeles Lakers Sign $165 Million Star’s Former Teammate on Exhibit 10 Deal; How It Impacts Title Odds

The Los Angeles Lakers have signed 7-foot center Kylor Kelley, a move aimed at bolstering defense and adding frontcourt insurance as the team looks to stay competitive in the post-Anthony Davis era.

How the Lakers Signed Kelley and What Brought the Deal Come Together

Kelley officially joined the Lakers on an Exhibit 10 training camp contract in late August 2025. This short-term deal gives him the chance to compete for a roster spot during preseason. If waived, he can still play for the Lakers’ G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers.The 7-footer is no stranger to the organization. Last season, Kelley anchored the paint for South Bay, where he impressed with his rim protection and interior defense.

His NBA experience includes brief stints with the Dallas Mavericks and New Orleans Pelicans.

Why the Los Angeles Lakers Made This Move

The Los Angeles Lakers’ decision to bring in Kelley comes down to three key factors: • Defensive depth: Kelley led the G League in blocks with 2.4 per game last season while shooting 68.2 percent from the field. • Roster flexibility: With Anthony Davis gone and the franchise entering a post-LeBron construction phase, size is at a premium. This low-risk deal allows them to test Kelley’s fit without long-term commitment.

• Playoff insurance: While Kelley is unlikely to be a major star, his rim protection gives the Los Angeles Lakers another defensive option when facing bigger lineups in the postseason.

What Kylor Kelley Gains from the Signing

For Kylor Kelley, this Exhibit 10 contract is more than just another stop - it’s a real chance to carve out an NBA role. • NBA opportunity: After years bouncing between the G League and international leagues, Kelley now has a path to real minutes with one of the NBA’s most storied teams. • Mentorship: Surrounded by seasoned veterans, he’ll have the opportunity to grow under the guidance of experienced stars. • Exposure: Playing for the Lakers puts him under a global spotlight, whether he secures a rotation role or continues as a defensive anchor in South Bay.

Kelley's Connection with Luka Doncic

Although Kelley and Luka Doncic overlapped on the Mavericks, they never shared the floor due to injuries—most notably Doncic’s calf strain in December.

Still, the two spent time together in training sessions, giving them a baseline familiarity.The Los Angeles Lakers appear to be prioritizing players who can complement Doncic’s style, and Kelley fits that mold as a rim protector. Early signals suggest Doncic is supportive of the signing, with his positive reactions on social media adding an optimistic touch.

Impact on Lakers’ Championship Odds

While not a blockbuster move, Kelley’s signing slightly strengthens the Lakers’ outlook.

Fans have responded with cautious optimism, calling the move a “solid depth signing” that could pay dividends if Kelley adapts quickly. Sportsbooks, however, have not significantly adjusted title odds.

A Grit-Filled Journey to Los Angeles

Kylor Kelley’s path to the Los Angeles Lakers has been anything but typical. From dominating at Oregon State as a shot-blocking specialist to traveling through international leagues and the G League, his journey reflects perseverance.Also read: NBA Trade News: Los Angeles Lakers Sign $ 3,507,541 Defensive Center on Exhibit 10 Deal; How It Impacts Title OddsWhether he becomes a purple-and-gold playoff hero or a valuable South Bay stalwart, Kylor Kelley’s story now has an L.A. chapter. That chapter begins with the chance to prove himself in training camp and, perhaps, on the NBA’s biggest stage.