4 Summer League invites who have a realistic shot to crack the rotation

Colin Castleton

As it presently stands, the Los Angeles Lakers' thinnest position is center. Anthony Davis, who would like to play more power forward, is the obvious starter at the moment, while Christian Wood looks to be the most likely player to back him up at the 5.

Colin Castleton has thus far been a standout player for the Lakers at the California Classic, and a strong showing at the Las Vegas Summer League could solidify his place in the team's plans.

Castleton played the 2023-24 season with the Lakers on a two-way contract and is back again for 2024-25. Undrafted in 2023, he's become an interesting project player for Los Angeles as a 6'10" and 250-pound big man with a huge 7'4" wingspan and an intriguing defensive ceiling.

Castleton showcased some of that potential with the South Bay Lakers, averaging 14.1 points, 9.8 rebounds, 3.0 offensive boards, 2.8 assists, 1.6 blocks, and 0.9 steals per game.

Castleton picked up where he left off by performing well at the California Classic. He recorded 18 points, 11 rebounds, four offensive boards, three assists, four blocks, and two steals in the Lakers' most recent game at the event, and tallied 11 points and 10 boards the previous time out.

It's possible that Castleton will spend the bulk of the 2024-25 season in the G League again, but the opportunity exists for him to earn playing time behind Davis.