As the 2026 NBA Draft festivities wrap up, the basketball world swiftly shifts its attention to free agency and the much-anticipated NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. The Los Angeles Lakers, a franchise steeped in history and success, are already gearing up for the action with a roster infused with promising young talent, including the likes of Adou Thiero and rookie Cameron Carr.
The Lakers' Summer League schedule has been set, and fans can mark their calendars for a series of exciting matchups. The 17-time NBA champions will tip off their Summer League campaign against the Oklahoma City Thunder on July 10 at the Thomas & Mack Center. Following that, they'll face off against the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Clippers, and Chicago Bulls in a series of games that promises to be as thrilling as it is competitive.
Here's how the schedule lines up:
- July 10: Thunder vs.
Lakers (7:00 PM PT), Thomas & Mack Center
- July 11: Lakers vs.
Mavs (7:00 PM PT), Thomas & Mack Center
- July 14: Clippers vs.
Lakers (7:00 PM PT), Thomas & Mack Center
- July 16: Lakers vs.
Bulls (3:00 PM PT), Thomas & Mack Center
The Lakers will have at least one more game post their showdown with the Bulls on July 16, as each team is guaranteed a minimum of five games. The specifics of this potential final matchup will hinge on the winning percentage, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the proceedings.
In addition to Thiero and Carr, who are expected to be the headline acts for the Lakers, the team has been busy bolstering its ranks with fresh talent. After securing Carr with the No. 24 overall pick in a savvy trade with the New York Knicks, the Lakers opted not to select another player, despite having acquired a second-round pick, which they ultimately traded to the Mavericks.
Once the draft concluded, Lakers' General Manager Rob Pelinka and his team were quick to act, signing undrafted talent to bolster their Summer League squad. Among these new additions is AK Okereke from Vanderbilt University, who joins the team on a two-way deal. Miami (OH) sharpshooter Peter Suder also inked a two-way contract and is expected to make his mark during the Summer League.
Further adding to their depth, the Lakers have signed several players to Exhibit 10 deals, including Jacari White (Virginia), William Kyle III (Syracuse), Robert McCray V (Florida State), Robbie Avila (Saint Louis), and Chase Ross (Marquette). While Thiero and Carr will draw much of the spotlight, these young guns have a golden opportunity to showcase their skills and make a case for their future in the league.
The Summer League is a vibrant stage where emerging talent meets opportunity, and for fans and players alike, it's an annual highlight filled with promise and potential.
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