Lakers quickly moved to secure additional talent, signing undrafted forwards Armel Traore and Blake Hinson to two-way contracts. Notably, Hinson’s deal spans two years, a clear indication that the Lakers see significant potential in his development.

Hinson, standing at 6’8″ with a 6’10” wingspan, is known for his exceptional shooting prowess. Last season, he showcased his s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s by shooting 42.1% from beyond the arc on 7.9 attempts per game, earning a spot on the First Team All-ACC while averaging 18.5 points and 4.4 rebounds per game at Pitt. Despite his impressive shooting, Hinson acknowledges the areas he needs to improve to make a mark in the NBA, particularly in rebounding and defense.

In his first public statement since signing with the Lakers, Hinson expressed his excitement and determination: “Joining the Lakers is a dream come true. I know there are things I need to work on, but I’m ready to put in the effort and prove myself. I’m grateful for this opportunity and can’t wait to get started with Summer League.”

Hinson’s signing for two years is somewhat unusual for two-way contracts, which are typically one-year deals. This suggests that the Lakers are committed to his long-term development and see him as a potential future asset for the team.

The Los Angeles Lakers signed rookie Blake Hinson to a two-year, two-way contract, league sources told @hoopshype. https://t.co/F69aE3HGur

— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) July 4, 2024

Summer League Opportunity

Hinson will have the chance to demonstrate his shooting ability and overall game during the Summer League. He will join a roster that includes Lakers’ 2024 draft picks Dalton Knecht and Bronny James, as well as other promising talents like Armel Traore, Maxwell Lewis, and Colin Castleton. The Summer League will be a crucial platform for Hinson to showcase his s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s and make a case for a more prominent role within the organization.

Lakers’ Belief in Hinson’s Potential

The Lakers’ decision to sign Hinson to a two-year deal underscores their belief in his potential. “Blake has shown tremendous ability as a shooter, and that’s a valuable asset in today’s game,” said an unnamed Lakers executive. “We believe with the right development, he can become a significant contributor at the NBA level.”

As Hinson prepares to join the Lakers for Summer League, all eyes will be on his performance and how he adapts to the heightened competition. With his shooting talent and the Lakers’ commitment to his growth, Hinson has a promising path ahead in his NBA journey.