The 2025 NBA Summer League kicked off on July 10 in Las Vegas, featuring elite rookies, G‑League standouts, and returning Lakers hopefuls aiming to make an impression. Here’s a deep dive into how the Los Angeles Lakers are performing, spotlighting their best players, pivotal matchups, and what to expect next.
1. Strong Start: Victories & Standout Performances
In their first game against the New Orleans Pelicans, the Lakers secured an impressive 94–81 win on July 12. Cole Swider led the charge with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and a steal, highlighting his versatility and sharp shooting. Bronny James added 14 points, 3 assists, and 2 steals, showcasing improved shooting—5-for-11 overall. Darius Bazley had an all-around breakout: 12 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, and an impressive 5 blocks.
Takeaway: The Lakers’ balanced firepower and defensive intensity, and performances by Swider and Bazley, suggest a deeper bench than expected.
2. Bronny James: Finding His Footing
Bronny James has had a rollercoaster Summer League. After a quiet 8-point opener against Dallas, he skyrocketed with 14 points in game two. His third game, however, was marred by struggles: just 2 points on 1-for-5 shooting, 3 turnovers, and an air-ball layup that drew fan criticism. Despite the backlash, his improved game two shows resilience.
Coach Dane Johnson praised Bronny’s defense and confidence–building process. While inconsistency persists, he’s proving he’s more than just a name.
3. Flops & Frenemies: Matchups With Mavericks
The Lakers opened against the Dallas Mavericks, featuring top draft pick Cooper Flagg. The Lakers lost a close one, 87–85. Flagg, despite poor shooting (5/21), displayed flashes: 10 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals, and a block. He acknowledged it was his “worst performance” but showed mental toughness.
Cole Swider again stood out with a 22-point, 10-rebound double-double. Bronny managed 8 points and had a chance at a game-winner but missed.
Insight: The defense and rebounding remain Lakers’ strengths; shooting and late-game execution need sharpening.
4. Rollercoaster: Lakers vs. Clippers
On July 14, the Clippers overcame the Lakers 67–58. The Lakers began strong, even executing an 8–0 rally in the 4th quarter, but could not sustain it. LeBron James led the team with 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists, while Swider added 16 points and 5 steals. Dalton Knecht chipped in 8 points, 7 rebounds.
Bottom line: Despite the loss, key players continued to make their mark.
5. Summer Standouts: Overreactions vs. Real Prospects
ESPN’s “first impressions” report noted the Lakers’ roster features notable talent. Dalton Knecht rebounded from earlier struggles to deliver consistent offense in both California and Las Vegas events. Meanwhile, Darius Bazley has emerged as the team’s surprise star: he’s averaged a double-double and 5 blocks across two games, rekindling public interest.
Overreaction warning: ClutchPoints cautions against overhyping Summer League: Knecht had early jitters but proved reliable; Bazley and Swider are forcing their way onto camp radars.
6. Role Players Rising
DJ Steward, a former Duke standout, shot a remarkable 70% and scored 20 points in his debut. His size, however, raises questions about his long-term fit. Meanwhile, Christian Koloko had 13 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 steals in Las Vegas.
Jake LaRavia, newly signed by the Lakers, might soon see court action. Not yet on a Summer League roster, he’ll likely join post-tournament.
7. Coaching & Development
Under coach Dane Johnson, Laker prospects are stressing defense and smart shot choices. Johnson emphasized building confidence and gradual improvement SI. The coaching angle is clear: evaluate intensity, fundamentals, and adaptability first—rote scoring is secondary.
8. What’s Next?
The Lakers have completed three Las Vegas games (1–2). They’re likely to play at least one more before the elimination bracket begins—tentatively scheduled between July 16–20 . Watch for updates on late rotation guys like Swider, Bazley, Knecht, and Steward.
Pro Tip: Lakers’ Performance = A combo of defensive grit, bench depth, and shooting consistency. Cole Swider and Darius Bazley are trending upward.
✅ Summer League Takeaways
- Cole Swider – Consistent 20+ point games and rebounding support make him a two-way contract contender.
- Darius Bazley – Impacts both ends with scoring, blocks, and hustle.
- Bronny James – Developing, valued for defense; needs smoothing of the offensive inconsistencies.
- Dalton Knecht – Veteran presence, scored solidly after early alignment issues.
- DJ Steward – Scoring burst potential with ball-handling to match.
- Christian Koloko & Jake LaRavia – Still finding their footing.
🔎 Final Thoughts
The Lakers’ Summer League has offered a promising view of who might stick in training camp and beyond. With strong performances from Swider and Bazley, and flashes by Steward, Knecht, and James, the Lakers’ bench depth looks encouraging. The summer will be a major test, but if defense and shot-making hold, the Lakers could enter preseason with renewed optimism.
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