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Lakers Sign Villanova Star To Two-Way Contract After NBA Draft

Originally posted on Fadeaway World | By Nico Martinez | Last updated Jun 27, 2025 1:23 AM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers only had one draft pick to work with tonight (which they turned into the 36th pick), but they didn't let it stop them from adding another young player to the roster. This time, it was Villanova star Eric Dixon who struck a deal, agreeing to terms on a two-way contract with the Lakers after going undrafted this week.

Dixon, a 24-year-old power forward, joins rookie Adou Thiero on the Lakers and will get to play alongside NBA superstars LeBron James and Luka Doncic. In the 2024-25 season, he averaged 23.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game on 45.1% shooting. He gives the Lakers some added depth on the wing and an alternative should they part ways with Jarred Vanderbilt or Rui Hachimura in the offseason.

While Dixon will not solve the Lakers' center problem, he can still be a highly impactful player for them as a solid mid-range shooter and elite long-range sniper. He shot 40.7% from beyond the arc this past season, proving that he can hit threes with high efficiency. He was also the leading scorer in the NCAA.

Only time will tell how Dixon's game translates to the big leagues, but his smooth stroke, favorable size, and physical play style should help him find a place on the Lakers. On a two-way contract, Dixon will be split between the G-League and the Lakers next season, giving him the perfect opportunity to grow and develop his game to the next level.

If that wasn't enough, the Lakers also picked up UNC prospect RJ Davis on an Exhibit 10 deal. He's a quick and crafty guard with good game sense and a strong work ethic, but he'll have to earn his way if he wants a more permanent spot on the Lakers.

With the Lakers expected to be competitive next season, it remains to be seen how much time these new young players will get with the starters, but they will have plenty of opportunities to prove themselves to JJ Redick and show that they're players who can stick around for years to come.

As for what's next, NBA free agency begins in a few days, and the Lakers are expected to make moves in order to add a center. Since no big man came in the draft, they'll have to find another way to fill the position so they can appease Luka Doncic. By the end, LA hopes they'll have enough to contend for a title and give LeBron James the heroic ending they feel he deserves.

This article first appeared on Fadeaway World and was syndicated with permission.

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