As the Los Angeles Lakers celebrated their 80th season, the storied franchise reflected on the 506 players who have donned their iconic jerseys since their inception as the Detroit Gems back in 1946. Among these players, some have become legends, while others have quietly contributed to the team's rich history.
One such player who made a brief stop in Los Angeles is Jay Huff. Standing at 7-foot-1, Huff made a name for himself at the University of Virginia, playing a pivotal role in the Cavaliers' 2019 NCAA championship run. Despite going undrafted, his potential caught the eye of the Lakers, who signed him to a two-way contract in October 2021 after a stint with the Washington Wizards.
Huff's rookie season saw him primarily honing his skills in the G League, where he showcased his ability as a shot-blocking, floor-stretching center. His time with the Lakers' main squad was limited to just four games, where he managed to gather four rebounds, one assist, one steal, and one block in 20 minutes of play, though he didn't score any points.
After being waived by the Lakers in October 2022, Huff embarked on a journey through the league before landing with the Indiana Pacers. This season, he's found his stride, averaging 9.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks over 20.9 minutes per game. Huff's consistency has been a bright spot for the Pacers, as he's appeared in all 73 games so far, proving that perseverance and hard work can lead to success in the NBA.