Lakers Summer League: 3 players who can earn a roster spot vs Celtics

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - JULY 05: Cole Swider #20 of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots over Sidy Cissoko #25 of the San Antonio Spurs in the first half during the 2023 NBA California Classic at Golden 1 Center on July 05, 2023 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - JULY 05: Cole Swider #20 of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots over Sidy Cissoko #25 of the San Antonio Spurs in the first half during the 2023 NBA California Classic at Golden 1 Center on July 05, 2023 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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Lakers Colin Castleton
(Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) Lakers Colin Castleton

Colin Castleton could earn a Lakers roster spot vs Celtics

Colin Castleton has become very popular among Lakers fans for his play during Summer League. Signed as an undrafted free agent after the 2023 NBA Draft, some fans think that the Lakers have found yet another hidden gem with the big man.

The former Florida Gator seemingly has the resume to make the roster as well. With five years of college experience, the 23-year-old is not as green as his rookie counterparts and is more of a finished product. That lowers his ceiling but the Lakers are not buying a high ceiling with Castleton.

Castleton played really well in his last two years in college as well. The 6-11 big man averaged 16.1 points, 8.4 rebounds and 2.6 blocks per game. He is exactly the kind of traditional rim-protecting big that can make a career in his league.

That strong play has carried into the Summer League with a lot of Lakers fans hoping that Castleton makes the roster. It certainly could happen and his case would be strengthened if he can continue his strong play against the Celtics.

That being said, Rob Pelinka has come out and said the team is active in the free-agent center market and is looking for someone with a different skillset than Jaxson Hayes. That hurts Castleton’s case, as he is more of the same for this Lakers team.