The NBA Summer League has taken the basketball world by storm as July heats up, with the Los Angeles Lakers kicking off their Las Vegas campaign against the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night. Despite the loss, the Lakers’ faithful remain optimistic, hopeful that this defeat won’t signal a downward spiral. Amid the disappointment, one bold decision by the Lakers’ front office is already showing signs of brilliance: the return of small forward Cole Swider.
A Familiar Face Shines Bright
The Lakers made waves before the Summer League by bolstering their roster with fresh talent, including the re-signing of Cole Swider, a familiar name to the purple and gold. The former Syracuse standout, who played sparingly for the Lakers in the 2022 and 2023 seasons, also spent time with their G League affiliate, South Bay, before a brief stint with the Toronto Raptors on a 10-day contract. His return to Los Angeles was a calculated move, and Swider wasted no time proving it was the right one.
In his Las Vegas debut, Swider delivered a jaw-dropping performance, leading the game with 22 points on an impressive 6/10 shooting (60.0%) and a scorching 6/9 from beyond the arc (66.7%). The 6’4” wing didn’t stop there, grabbing 10 rebounds and dishing out an assist in 30 minutes of play. For a player who has struggled to find a stable NBA home, this was a statement performance that showcased his potential as a sharpshooting asset.
A Career in Search of Stability
Swider’s journey in the NBA has been anything but smooth. Since his debut with the Lakers in October 2022, the Portsmouth, Rhode Island native has appeared in just 35 games across four teams, averaging a modest 3.1 points and 1.2 rebounds with shooting splits of .364/.329/.667. Despite the lack of consistent opportunities, Swider’s skill set—particularly his ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting—makes him an intriguing prospect.
His Summer League explosion could be the turning point he’s been waiting for. The Lakers’ decision to bring him back is already paying dividends, and if Swider can sustain this level of production, he may carve out a meaningful role in Los Angeles.
A Perfect Fit for the Lakers’ Future?
The Lakers’ roster boasts elite playmakers like LeBron James and, in this Summer League matchup, the chance to face off against Dallas’ Luka Doncic. Players like Swider, with their ability to knock down open shots, thrive alongside such facilitators. His performance in Las Vegas suggests he could be a valuable piece off the bench, providing the spacing and scoring punch the Lakers need to complement their star-studded lineup.
The NBA Summer League is a breeding ground for unexpected stars, offering lesser-known players a platform to shine. Swider’s confident display is a reminder that he has the tools to succeed at the highest level. If he continues to capitalize on this opportunity, the Lakers may have found a hidden gem to bolster their second unit.
Looking Ahead
As the Summer League rolls on, all eyes will be on Swider to see if he can maintain his momentum. The Lakers’ bold decision to give him another shot is already looking like a masterstroke, and with his confidence soaring, Swider has a golden opportunity to secure a permanent spot in the NBA. For a team searching for reliable role players, Cole Swider might just be the sharpshooter they’ve been waiting for.