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 D'Moi Hodge
(Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

D’Moi Hodge could earn a Lakers roster spot vs Celtics

While Castleton is definitely an exciting center prospect and it is easy to get caught up in his play, the undrafted rookie that Lakers fans should really be paying attention to is D’Moi Hodge. Hodge has legitimate tools to be an NBA rotation player and has the best chance of anyone on this list to make the roster.

We here at Lake Show Life circled Hodge as a potential hidden gem once the Lakers signed him after the draft. Hodge was getting compared to Kentavious Caldwell-Pope when he joined the Lakers and what do you know, the rookie said himself that is who he models his game after.

Hodge is coming off a really strong game against the Charlotte Hornets in which he scored 16 points with five rebounds, two blocks and a steal. He shot 6-11 from the field and 2-6 from three. If he can put together that kind of game against Boston then it might be a wrap that he will make the roster.

Hodge’s advantage lies in the position he plays and what he offers the team. Los Angeles is still a bit thin at two-guard with Austin Reaves and Max Christie being the only realistic options. We all know how much Darvin Ham loves guards, so adding a third shooting guard to the equation makes sense.

Plus, Hodge has the skill set to thrive as a rotation player. He might not be the most dynamic shot creator or offensive initiator but he is a bulldog who plays tough-nosed defense and can knock down three-point shots. He has all the makings of being a career three-and-D role player in this league.