In a savvy move that has sent ripples through the NBA, the Los Angeles Lakers have signed undrafted rookie guard Chris Mañon to a two-way contract, plucking the standout defender from the Golden State Warriors’ summer league roster. The announcement, made on Thursday, July 24, 2025, underscores the Lakers’ knack for identifying and securing high-potential talent at the back end of their roster, leaving the Warriors reeling from the loss of a promising prospect.
A Defensive Dynamo from Vanderbilt
Chris Mañon, a 23-year-old, 6-foot-5 guard/wing, made waves during the 2025 NBA Summer League with the Warriors, showcasing his elite defensive instincts and ability to impact games beyond scoring. After spending three years at Cornell and his senior season at Vanderbilt, Mañon emerged as a defensive playmaker, averaging at least 1.7 steals per game across all four collegiate seasons. His summer league performance was equally impressive, with averages of 11 points, 5.2 rebounds, two assists, 1.6 blocks, and 1.4 steals over five games in Las Vegas, while shooting an efficient 50% from three, albeit on low volume.
The Lakers have signed guard Chris Mañon to a two-way contract.
Mañon (6’5”, 215) appeared in 33 games (26 starts) during the 2024-25 season for Vanderbilt University, averaging 6.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.7 steals in 18.2 minutes.
— Brad Turner (@BA_Turner) July 24, 2025
Mañon’s standout game came in the Warriors’ final summer league contest, where he erupted for 17 points, five rebounds, four steals, two assists, and two blocks, posting a plus-21 plus/minus in an 11-point victory. His ability to generate “stocks” (steals and blocks) and contribute to winning plays caught the attention of the Lakers, who wasted no time in securing his services.
A Strategic Two-Way Signing
The Lakers’ decision to sign Mañon to a two-way contract is a calculated move to bolster their roster with a versatile, high-energy defender who can develop into a 3-and-D role player. With stars like Luka Dončić and LeBron James anchoring the lineup, the Lakers rely heavily on their guards and forwards to stretch the floor and provide defensive tenacity. Mañon’s skill set aligns perfectly with this vision, as his defensive prowess—evidenced by a 5.5% steal rate, 2.8% block rate, and 4.1 defensive box plus/minus at Vanderbilt—makes him a potential disruptor on the perimeter.
OFFICIAL: Lakers sign guard Chris Mañon to a two-way contract. pic.twitter.com/H6XBeTCysH
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) July 24, 2025
While Mañon’s offensive game, particularly his three-point shooting, remains a work in progress, his summer league performance suggests he has the tools to grow into a reliable contributor. The Lakers, known for their success in developing G League and two-way players, see Mañon as a low-risk, high-reward addition who can compete for minutes in a crowded backcourt that includes Marcus Smart, Gabe Vincent, and Austin Reaves.
Lakers’ Roster Depth and Chemistry
The signing of Mañon comes alongside the re-signing of center Christian Koloko to another two-way deal, further solidifying the Lakers’ depth. Koloko, a former second-round pick and elite rim protector, averaged 2.4 points and 2.5 rebounds in 37 games for the Lakers during the 2024-25 season. Fans have expressed optimism about both moves, with social media reactions highlighting Koloko’s chemistry with the team and Mañon’s potential to fill a role similar to former Lakers two-way player Jordan Goodwin.
One fan, @lakersleoo, praised Koloko’s signing, noting, “good chemistry, still building out his body and his game, i love it.” Another, @Mutabile8, suggested that Mañon and Koloko could serve as “fringe rotation guys,” with Mañon potentially stepping into a defensive sparkplug role. The Lakers’ strategy of prioritizing defensive-minded players like Mañon and Koloko reflects their determination to build a roster capable of competing in the Western Conference, even after a first-round playoff exit to the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2025.
Warriors Left Stunned
For the Warriors, losing Mañon is a blow to their summer league momentum. His performances in the California Classic and Las Vegas showcased a player ready to make an impact at the professional level, and his departure leaves Golden State scrambling to replace his defensive energy. The Lakers’ ability to swoop in and secure Mañon underscores their aggressive approach to roster building, capitalizing on the Warriors’ hesitation to lock him into a deal.
Looking Ahead
With one two-way contract slot still available, per ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, the Lakers have room to continue tinkering with their roster. The additions of Mañon and Koloko, combined with established stars like Dončić and James, and the return of healthy players like Jarred Vanderbilt and Jaxson Hayes, signal the Lakers’ belief in their current core. While blockbuster trade rumors involving LeBron James persist, the team’s focus appears to be on maximizing the potential of their existing roster while integrating cost-effective, high-upside talents like Mañon.
As the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes will be on Mañon to see if he can translate his summer league promise into meaningful NBA minutes. If his defensive tenacity and hustle translate to the Lakers’ system, the team may have found another diamond in the rough, leaving the Warriors to regret letting an Ivy League star slip through their fingers.