The Los Angeles Lakers have been extremely active this offseason. After making some key signings, the Purple and Gold have certainly bolstered their roster. As promising as their offense looks, some questions could be raised about their defensive integrity. However, L.A. may have found a way to address this issue.
The Lakers recently re-signed Chris Manon to a two-way contract. The former Vanderbilt guard appeared in only nine games for the Purple and Gold last season, averaging 5.1 minutes per game. While this may not draw much attention, his latest comments following the Lakers’ Summer League game against the Miami Heat could spark some intrigue.
Following L.A.’s 93-91 thriller victory over the Heat in 2OT, Chris Manon (12 PTS, 3 REB, 3 AST, 2 STL) was asked about whom he models his game after. His response was largely promising, as he revealed:
“I look at a lot of different guys – Alex Caruso, Jrue Holiday. All these different guys that are pests on the ball and off the ball. Just trying to do whatever I can.”
Barring Collin Sexton, who possesses noteworthy two-way ability, the Lakers’ backcourt only features immensely talented offensive players. Although this has merit, the lack of a reliable defensive anchor following Marcus Smart’s departure is concerning.
On that note, Chris Manon’s commitment to being a defensive-minded guard is quite refreshing. But is his mindset enough to earn him a larger role in the rotation?
Will Chris Manon Earn A Larger Role With The Lakers?
Chris Manon likely earned some brownie points with the Lakers’ fan base when sharing the names of the players he draws inspiration from. With former Lakers guard and two-time NBA champion Alex Caruso being mentioned, L.A. fans are bound to be intrigued by what the 24-year-old has to offer.
On the surface, Manon’s performance may not stand out. As mentioned earlier, by virtue of being a two-way contract, the guard barely received any opportunities to showcase his talents in the NBA last season.
Having averaged only 0.8 points, 1.1 rebounds, and 0.3 assists per game, Manon hardly contributed. Despite this, however, the fact that he averaged 0.6 steals per game is quite interesting.
Although Chris Manon did not receive many opportunities in the NBA, the guard earned considerable playing time in the G League with the South Bay Lakers last season.
In 33 appearances (26 starts), the 24-year-old guard averaged 10.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.9 steals per game (team-high). Along with this, he also posted 14.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 2.5 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game in 13 Tip-Off Tournament games.
For his performances, Manon was named to the G League’s All-Defensive Team for the 2025-26 season. He also finished second in DPOY voting.
In theory, Manon’s G League stats are impressive, especially since they highlight his overall development. But it is difficult to forecast whether these stats will translate into meaningful minutes in the NBA this season.
Currently, the Lakers’ backcourt rotation features several players who are more likely to get their number called in the regular season. While this could limit Manon’s chances of making the rotation, he could earn a larger role if he impresses during training camp and the preseason.
