Darius Bazley’s Summer League Injury: A Blow to Lakers’ Depth and Development Plans…See more…
The Los Angeles Lakers’ 2025 NBA Summer League campaign took a somber turn this week as veteran forward Darius Bazley suffered a serious leg injury during their game against the Boston Celtics on July 17. As Bazley left the court in a wheelchair, both fans and teammates were visibly shaken, and what was shaping up to be a promising developmental week ended with uncertainty and concern for a key rotation player.
Bazley’s injury not only casts doubt on his availability for the start of the 2025–26 season, but it also presents challenges for the Lakers’ front office as they finalize their roster and evaluate potential bench depth. His absence in the short term creates a gap in the Lakers’ frontcourt options—one that may prompt new signings or open doors for younger players.
Who Is Darius Bazley?
Darius Bazley is no stranger to adversity. A former first-round pick by the Utah Jazz in 2019 (later traded to Oklahoma City), Bazley was seen as a high-upside forward with a rare mix of size, agility, and defensive instincts. After stints with the Thunder, Suns, and Nets, he joined the Lakers organization in 2024, hoping to find a stable role.
The 6-foot-9 forward entered the Lakers’ Summer League roster as both a veteran mentor and a player competing for a long-term spot. Known for his defensive versatility and ability to guard multiple positions, Bazley was also showing signs of progress on offense—particularly in transition and mid-range shooting. Lakers coaches viewed him as a valuable piece in a second unit that could rely on effort and athleticism.
This Summer League was meant to be a springboard for Bazley’s full integration into the 2025–26 Lakers roster. Instead, it has turned into a test of resilience.
The Injury: What Happened?
The injury occurred midway through the second half of the Lakers vs. Celtics game. Bazley attempted a contested drive to the basket but landed awkwardly while absorbing contact. As he hit the floor, he immediately reached for his leg, wincing in pain. Team trainers rushed in, and after several minutes of evaluation, he was helped into a wheelchair and taken off the court.
Although an official diagnosis has not yet been released, sources close to the Lakers medical staff suspect a significant ligament strain or tear, possibly involving the Achilles or knee. A full MRI scan is reportedly pending, but early indications suggest Bazley may miss a minimum of 6 to 8 weeks, if not longer.
Summer League coach Dane Johnson spoke to reporters after the game: “It’s heartbreaking. Darius was playing with energy and doing all the right things. You never want to see a player go down, especially one working as hard as he’s been.”
Impact on the Lakers’ Roster
Bazley’s potential absence affects the Lakers on multiple fronts:
- Frontcourt Depth: With Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, and LeBron James already handling key forward minutes, Bazley was expected to be a rotation option for back-to-backs or injury relief. His injury removes a defensive-minded forward from the bench and puts pressure on other developing players to step up.
- Development Pipeline Disruption: Bazley was one of the few veterans on the Summer League squad who could guide young players like Bronny James and Colin Castleton. His experience and communication on defense had been valuable, especially for young guards learning how to rotate properly.
- Roster Decisions: Bazley was fighting for a final roster spot or a two-way contract. This injury could complicate that decision. While the Lakers may hold onto him during rehab out of good faith, it could also lead them to pursue free-agent forwards or elevate G-League players to fill the gap.
Who Could Step Up?
With Bazley sidelined, the Lakers may turn to the following players:
- Cole Swider: A stretch forward known for his shooting, Swider has had stints with the Lakers’ main roster and could benefit from increased minutes.
- Maxwell Lewis: A second-year player with length and athleticism, Lewis could be molded into a similar defensive role if he improves his awareness and discipline.
- Two-way Contract Candidates: The Lakers might consider converting Summer League standouts into two-way players. If Bazley is ruled out long-term, this would be a cost-effective and developmental-focused move.
There are also rumors that the Lakers are eyeing a move for veteran Marcus Smart, which could help shore up perimeter defense and give more structure to the second unit. While Smart is a guard, his defensive leadership would help cover some of the void Bazley leaves.
A Setback, But Not the End
For Bazley, this is another roadblock in a career that’s already faced its fair share of twists and turns. But he’s overcome adversity before—bypassing college to intern with New Balance before the draft, bouncing between teams, and working to redefine himself as a reliable NBA role player.
If the injury isn’t season-ending, Bazley still has a chance to contribute to the Lakers’ playoff hopes in the spring. More importantly, the Lakers organization has a history of supporting players through injury, and it wouldn’t be surprising if they stick with Bazley through his rehab and recovery.
Final Thoughts
While Summer League is typically a place for hope and highlights, Darius Bazley’s injury is a sobering reminder of how fragile a player’s path can be. It also throws a curveball at the Lakers’ depth strategy heading into the regular season.
The next few weeks will determine how the team adjusts—whether through roster additions, G-League promotions, or a shift in rotations. But one thing’s clear: Bazley’s presence, both on and off the court, will be missed.
And as always in the NBA, it’s not just about the fall—it’s about the comeback.
Sources: Lakers Summer League press conference, team reports, injury updates from Times of India and NY Post
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