The Los Angeles Lakers are making a roster move as the postseason pressure mounts. With key guards Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves sidelined for the coming weeks, the team is seeking to bolster its backcourt depth for a potential playoff push.

According to reports from ESPN's Shams Charania, the Lakers have waived guard Kobe Bufkin. The 6-foot-4 guard, originally the No. 15 overall pick in the 2023 draft, was called up from the G League earlier this season but saw limited action, averaging 2.9 points in 16 appearances.

This strategic move opens a valuable roster spot for the Lakers. With the regular season winding down, the front office can now evaluate available free agents or G League standouts to add a more immediate contributor for the crucial stretch run and a potential playoff berth.

While players like Luke Kennard and Rui Hachimura have provided offensive sparks, securing reliable guard depth remains a priority. This roster flexibility is a classic late-season maneuver as contenders fine-tune their lineups for the intensity of playoff basketball.