Earlier this offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers re-signed guard Chris Mañon to a two-way contract. Mañon spent much of last season on a two-way deal, primarily with the South Bay Lakers of the G League where he established himself as one of the best defensive guards there.
Now, Mañon will have the opportunity to continue to grow with the Lakers who clearly value what he brings to the table. And when thinking about the kind of player he hopes to become, Mañon mentioned one of the most beloved Lakers players in recent history, Alex Caruso as well as respected veteran Jrue Holiday.
“I try to look at a lot of different guys. Alex Caruso, Jrue Holiday.,” Manon said to Raj Chipalu of Lakers Today following the Lakers’ Summer League victory over the Miami Heat. “All these different guys that are pests on the ball and off the ball. Try to do whatever I can.”
Holiday is certainly an excellent player to model his game after, though expecting him to reach that level as an offensive player might be asking too much. But Caruso, who was also undrafted, would be an ideal path to follow.
Caruso used the G League to grow and develop before eventually signing a standard contract with the Lakers and becoming one of the team’s most popular players. His defensive intensity, basketball IQ and highlight dunks made him a favorite of LeBron James, and he was crucial on the team’s run to the 2020 NBA Championship. And he has filled that same role with the Oklahoma City Thunder, playing a major role in their 2025 championship run while also making multiple NBA All-Defensive Teams along the way.
Mañon was a G League All-Defensive Team selection last season after ranking in the top 10 in steals. Overall, he averaged 10.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 2.0 steals in 33 games. The key for Mañon will be the development of his jumper as he shot just 32% from deep last year and only 30.4% on minimal volume in his four-year collegiate career.
Even still, Mañon will have the chance during Summer League and training camp to show what he can bring to this team and for a team in need of perimeter defenders, he could be someone who can make a difference if he continues to develop.
Lakers rookie Cameron Carr excited after Summer League debut
So far in Summer League, rookie Cameron Carr has been the standout after some strong scoring performances at the California Classic. Following his debut, he expressed his excitement at being on the court, while also admitting to being nervous prior to his debut.
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