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Four Lakers to Watch in NBA 2K26 Las Vegas Summer League

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The Lakers wrapped up the California Classic with a 2-1 record after a wire-to-wire win over the San Antonio Spurs. Ahead of the NBA 2K26 Summer League in Las Vegas, here are four key players to watch heading into the ten-day slate.

Four Lakers to Watch in NBA 2K26 Las Vegas Summer League

Dalton Knecht

After a rough start to the California Classic, second-year forward Dalton Knecht came alive against the Spurs, notching 25 points—including 13 in the fourth quarter—of LA’s 89-88 victory. He displayed fluid scoring from all three levels and finally got into a groove that he’ll look to carry over into Vegas. He will also aim to build on a productive rookie year, where he averaged 9.1 points on 46% shooting from the field and 37% from three.

Despite his name constantly appearing in trade rumors, that has not stopped “Knecht 4” from putting on a show for Lakers Nation, as he looks to earn a bigger role heading into year two.

Bronny James

Bronny James has captured fans’ attention ever since the Lakers took him 55th overall last year. After a heavily scrutinized rookie year, the son of Lakers star LeBron James is looking to showcase his growth and silence the doubters heading into year two.

James Jr. has done that so far in Summer League, scoring ten points in eleven minutes against the Heat on Sunday. Bronny previously said he must be a “defensive menace” to earn minutes, and he showed that in the Bay Area, picking pockets for highlight plays and playing physical on-ball defense. Though his offense could be more consistent, he’s shown bursts of athleticism and an improved jumper. Audiences will continue to monitor Bronny’s growth in Vegas as he vies for a spot in JJ Redick’s rotation.

Cole Swider

A former two-way player for the Lakers, Cole Swider has displayed an excellent offensive repertoire in his second Summer League stint in LA. He began the California Classic with consecutive 20-point games, shooting 7/10 from the field each time. Then on Tuesday against the Spurs, Swider started 0/4 before catching fire and hitting four of his next five shots. He finished with 15 points (5/13 FG), four rebounds, two steals, two blocks and an assist, building on his strong start en route to an All-California Classic Team selection.

As he’s shown time and time again, Swider’s best attribute is his shooting. The journeyman wing doesn’t shy away from distance, often firing off the catch or relocating after a pump fake. In a league that has prioritized threes, Swider fits right in. However, improvements on defense will be vital toward continuing his career.

Darius Bazley

After a unique path to the league, Darius Bazley has turned heads with his solid two-way play. The former OKC Thunder forward recently spent a season in China, and, like others, he’s hungry to return to the NBA. The 25-year-old stuffed the stat sheet Tuesday with 27 points (team high), 13 rebounds and two assists off the bench, making a very compelling case for the purple and gold. In the first three summer games, Bazley made his mark on defense while scoring well in transition and being physical in the paint, not to mention having a decent handle and slick spin move. He even won the game for LA, rising up for a putback slam before recording the game-sealing stop.

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Bazley has been tremendous on both sides of the ball, and if the Lakers had any guaranteed spots left, he’d be the perfect candidate. He may not be the best three-point shooting forward, but he makes up for it with his athleticism and toughness—traits that any franchise could use heading into training camp.

Lakers Las Vegas Summer League Schedule

Fans will get to see the young Lakers compete in Las Vegas from July 10 to 20, beginning with a high-profile matchup against the Dallas Mavericks and this year’s No. 1 overall pick, Cooper Flagg. The team’s four confirmed games will be played at UNLV’s Thomas & Mack Center, where many current and former Lakers logged their first NBA minutes.

  • July 10, 5 p.m. PT: Lakers vs. Mavericks, ESPN
  • July 12, 5:30 p.m.: Lakers vs. Pelicans, ESPN2
  • July 14, 7:30 p.m.: Lakers vs. Clippers, NBA TV
  • July 17, 6 p.m.: Lakers vs. Celtics, ESPN
  • July 18-20: Four-Team Tournament and Consolation Games, opponents and times TBD

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