The Los Angeles Lakers have been dominating the headlines this season with their star-studded roster and impressive performances. However, amidst all the talk about LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and other big names, there is one player who may be going unnoticed – Chris Manon.
Manon may not be a household name yet, but he is quickly making a name for himself in the G League as one of the most disruptive defenders. The 6’5″ guard is currently playing for the South Bay Lakers, the Lakers’ G League affiliate team, and has been turning heads with his impressive play.
Despite being overlooked by many, Manon has been making a strong case for himself as a potential two-way player for the Lakers. Two-way players are those who can play for both the NBA team and its G League affiliate team throughout the season. This allows them to gain valuable experience and also fill in for any injuries or absences in the main roster.
Manon’s defensive prowess has been on full display this season, and it’s not just in the G League. In a recent matchup against the Austin Spurs, Manon guarded former NBA All-Star, and Spurs’ affiliate player, DeMar DeRozan. Although DeRozan had a strong game overall, Manon’s defense made him work for every point, and even forced him into a few turnovers.
But it’s not just his individual matchups that make Manon stand out. His overall defensive impact on the court is something that is hard to ignore. He has been consistently disrupting passing lanes, contesting shots, and using his length and quickness to bother opposing players. This has led to him averaging 1.5 steals per game, a number that will surely catch the Lakers’ attention.
While Manon’s defensive abilities are impressive, what makes him even more intriguing is his potential on the offensive end. In college, he was known as a sharpshooter, averaging 45% from behind the arc in his senior year. Although he hasn’t been able to find his shot in the G League just yet, his potential as a two-way player is evident.
In a league where two-way players are becoming more and more important, it’s puzzling why the Lakers have not given Manon a chance on their main roster. Sure, they have a stacked lineup, but they also have several injury-prone players like Davis and James. Having a player like Manon who can fill in and provide defensive intensity would be a great asset for the team.
But perhaps the biggest reason why the Lakers should be taking a closer look at Manon is his work ethic and attitude. He has been praised by his coaches and teammates for his professionalism and dedication to the game. In an interview with Heavy Sports, South Bay Lakers head coach Coby Karl said, “He’s an effort guy. He has a great mindset, and he’s willing to do the dirty work.”
Manon’s journey to the G League has not been an easy one. After going undrafted in the 2019 NBA Draft, he played in the Drew League, a popular pro-am tournament in Los Angeles, to showcase his skills. He then joined the NBA G League Ignite team, a developmental team for young prospects, before finally ending up with the South Bay Lakers.
Despite the challenges, Manon has remained focused and determined to make a name for himself. And it’s safe to say that he is well on his way to doing just that. With his defensive abilities, potential as a two-way player, and strong work ethic, it’s only a matter of time before he catches the attention of the Lakers’ front office.
In conclusion, the Lakers may be overlooking a defensive maestro with two-way upside in Chris Manon. His impact on the court and potential to contribute on both ends of the floor make him a valuable asset for any team, including the Lakers. It’s time for the Lakers to give this emerging talent a chance and see what he can bring to the table. Who knows, he may just surprise everyone and become a key piece in their quest for another NBA championship.