Lakers receive green light to develop new interior anchor alongside Anthony Davis

The Los Angeles Lakers have made it no secret that they're interested in helping Anthony Davis down low. They've prioritized the development of Jaxson Hayes, emphasized offensive rebounding to players at every position, and have even been active in exploring the trade market.

One of the quieter moves that could provide Los Angeles with its resolution was the late offseason acquisition of former Toronto Raptors center Christian Koloko.

Koloko was on the fast track to a strong NBA career when he was forced to step away from the Association due to a blood clot that threatened his life. He's since worked tirelessly to resolve the medical concerns and return to the court, and signed with the Lakers in mid-September.

According to Shams Charania of ESPN, Koloko has now been medically cleared to return to the court—opening the door for the Lakers to begin his development process.

It's one of the best stories in sports, as well as a unique opportunity for the Lakers to get in on the ground floor with a captivating talent.

Christian Koloko has been medically cleared to return to Lakers

Koloko, 24, was selected by the Raptors at No. 33 overall in the 2022 NBA Draft. He received critical acclaim during his final season at the collegiate level, earning Defensive Player of the Year and Most Improved Player honors in the Pac-12.

During his rookie NBA season in 2022-23, Koloko continued to showcase his remarkable upside on the defensive end of the floor, as well as on the offensive glass.

Koloko averaged 3.1 points and 2.9 rebounds in 13.8 minutes per game, which is unlikely to inspire hope or intrigue. In that limited timeframe, however, he also produced averages of 1.4 offensive rebounds and 1.3 blocks per contest.

Those figures translate to 3.8 offensive rebounds and 2.6 blocks per 36 minutes—the type of production the Lakers would undoubtedly benefit from in 2024-25.

Koloko will likely begin his official return to the NBA with the South Bay Lakers in the G League. He signed with Los Angeles on a two-way contract that permits roster flexibility and should enable the 24-year-old to play at the highest level sooner than later.

It also further supports head coach JJ Redick stating that there will be a symbiotic relationship between the Lakers' NBA and G League teams.

It's unclear what Koloko can provide after a season away from the NBA, but the upside is clear. He stands at 7'0" and 230 pounds with a gigantic 7'5.25" wingspan that has already proven useful on both ends of the floor.

There may still be a long process ahead of Koloko and the Lakers, but receiving the green light to return to the court is a massive step in the right direction.