The Los Angeles Lakers have signed free agent center Christian Koloko to a two-way contract, enhancing their frontcourt depth while viewing him as a developmental project. To make room for Koloko, the Lakers waived forward Blake Hinson, sources told ESPN. The team’s other two-way slots are filled by center Colin Castleton and 6-foot-9 forward Armel Traore.

Koloko, selected 33rd overall by the Toronto Raptors in the 2022 NBA Draft, missed the entire last season due to a blood clot issue. He must receive clearance from the league’s “fitness-to-play panel,” which includes an NBA-appointed doctor, a players union-appointed doctor, and a mutually agreed third doctor, before he can resume basketball activities with L.A.

The Lakers have conducted an independent evaluation of the 24-year-old Koloko’s condition and are optimistic about his potential to play this season, according to sources.

During his only season with the Raptors, Koloko averaged 3.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.0 block in 13.8 minutes per game. He concluded three seasons at the University of Arizona with averages of 12.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks, earning the title of Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year.