Breaking News: LA Lakers Sign Quincy Olivari to Two-Way Contract

In a significant move, the Los Angeles Lakers have signed 23-year-old guard Quincy Olivari to a two-way contract, reportedly worth $140,000. This decision, made in early December 2024, signals a new chapter for Olivari’s career as he transitions into the NBA after a standout performance at Xavier University. The signing not only provides Olivari with an opportunity to prove himself in the NBA but also highlights the Lakers’ ongoing strategy of building depth and potential for the future. Here’s a breakdown of the move and what it could mean for both Olivari and the Lakers.

Quincy Olivari: A Rising Star at Xavier

Before his professional journey began, Quincy Olivari established himself as a force to be reckoned with in college basketball. The 6’4″ guard had an impressive tenure with the Xavier Musketeers, where he played a key role in the team’s offense, known for his scoring ability, athleticism, and strong defense. Olivari’s journey to Xavier, which started in the Texas high school basketball circuit, has been defined by continuous growth and improvement.

At Xavier, Olivari made a significant impact, particularly in his final season, where he emerged as one of the top players in the Big East Conference. His ability to score both from the perimeter and driving to the basket earned him a reputation as a well-rounded offensive weapon. Averaging over 15 points per game, Olivari proved that he could handle the spotlight and excel against tough competition. His strong basketball IQ, combined with his smooth shooting stroke, made him a standout.

Beyond his scoring, Olivari was also known for his defensive intensity and ability to create turnovers. This versatility in both ends of the floor made him an intriguing prospect for NBA teams. His all-around game and competitive nature made him a name to watch, and it’s no surprise that the Lakers saw potential in him.

The Two-Way Contract: A Strategic Move for the Lakers

A two-way contract is a significant step for any player, as it offers a chance to play for an NBA team while still spending a portion of the season in the G League. These contracts allow teams to develop young talent without taking up a traditional roster spot, providing an avenue for both player and team growth. The Lakers’ decision to offer Olivari a two-way contract reflects their confidence in his potential to contribute to the team, whether at the NBA or G League level.

While two-way contracts are typically reserved for players with high upside who might need some development before making a full-time NBA roster, they are also a way for teams to enhance their roster depth, particularly with a player who has shown promise at the collegiate level. For Olivari, this contract is an opportunity to prove his worth and potentially earn a more permanent spot on the Lakers roster in the future.

For the Lakers, the signing of Olivari makes a lot of sense. They’ve been consistently working to develop young players who can provide meaningful contributions as part of their long-term plans. With the team’s veteran core, led by LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and others, the Lakers have the luxury of nurturing young talent like Olivari, who can learn from the veterans while also honing his skills in the G League.

The Lakers’ Roster and How Olivari Fits In

The Los Angeles Lakers have a deep roster this season, one that includes a blend of experienced players and young talent. As of 2024, they are coming off a successful season and are poised to make a serious push for a championship. In such a competitive environment, adding a player like Olivari to their roster on a two-way contract gives them another potential contributor while also providing a developmental pathway.

Olivari’s ability to play both guard positions gives the Lakers flexibility in their backcourt. While the Lakers are stacked with veteran players like D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and the ever-reliable LeBron James, Olivari can add depth, particularly in the guard rotation. His ability to shoot from the outside and contribute as a secondary playmaker could be of great value to the Lakers, especially in situations where their starters need rest or if they face injuries. His defensive tenacity and athleticism could also give the Lakers more versatility in defensive matchups, particularly against fast-paced or high-scoring teams.

Additionally, Olivari’s presence in the G League provides the Lakers with another player to call upon when injuries or fatigue take a toll on their roster. His time in the G League would give him the chance to refine his skills further, while the Lakers coaching staff gets a closer look at his development. If Olivari proves himself in the G League, he could be a candidate to be called up to the NBA roster for more minutes, or even possibly earn a spot in future seasons.

The Lakers’ Youth Movement: Embracing the Future

The signing of Quincy Olivari is also part of a larger trend for the Lakers, who are embracing a more youth-oriented approach to building their team’s future. While the franchise is known for its star-studded rosters, particularly in the LeBron James era, the Lakers have also shown a keen interest in developing young talent. Over the past few years, the Lakers have drafted and signed a number of promising young players, including Reaves, Max Christie, and Jalen Hood-Schifino. Adding Olivari to the mix gives the Lakers another piece in their youth movement.

The Lakers are well aware that the future of their franchise depends not just on the current superstars but also on their ability to cultivate emerging talent. Olivari, while still early in his career, could become a key piece of the Lakers’ long-term strategy. As LeBron ages, the team will need to rely more heavily on younger players to step up, and adding a dynamic guard like Olivari could be a pivotal move in ensuring that the team stays competitive for years to come.

Olivari’s Next Steps: A Journey to Prove Himself

For Quincy Olivari, this is a critical time in his career. The two-way contract is not just an opportunity but also a challenge. To make it in the NBA, he’ll need to continue to work on his game, refine his skills, and prove that he belongs. The path to the NBA is rarely linear, and Olivari will face the pressure of performing well enough in the G League to warrant a call-up to the Lakers’ full roster.

Olivari’s future with the Lakers will depend on his development and ability to contribute when given the chance. If he can continue to improve his shooting consistency, enhance his playmaking, and solidify his defensive game, he could carve out a role on the Lakers in the coming seasons. The two-way contract is just the beginning, and the hard work begins now.

Conclusion

The LA Lakers’ decision to sign Quincy Olivari to a two-way contract worth $140,000 is a strategic move that highlights their commitment to developing young talent while maintaining a deep and flexible roster. For Olivari, it represents the culmination of years of hard work and a chance to prove himself at the highest level. As the Lakers continue to build for both the present and the future, Olivari’s development will be something to watch closely. Whether he stays with the Lakers long-term or transitions to another team, the 23-year-old guard has the potential to be a key player in the NBA’s ever-changing landscape.