Lakers waive Kylor Kelley

Sep 29, 2025 8:07 AM

The Los Angeles Lakers have parted ways with center Kylor Kelley, according to the NBA’s official transaction log.

Kelley had rejoined the organization this past August on an Exhibit 10 contract, a type of deal often used to secure players for training camp and funnel them to a team’s G League affiliate.

It wasn’t his first stint with Los Angeles – he signed a similar contract prior to the 2024/25 season, was waived during camp, and then spent most of the year anchoring the paint for the South Bay Lakers in the G League.

The 7’0’’ center has brief NBA experience under his belt as well.

He appeared in 11 games at the top level, eight with the Dallas Mavericks and three with the New Orleans Pelicans, posting career averages of 3.1 points and 3.5 rebounds in 11.5 minutes per contest.

In South Bay last season, Kelley showed flashes of what makes him an intriguing developmental big man.

He averaged 11.5 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game, demonstrating rim protection and rebounding ability that kept him on the Lakers’ radar.

By releasing him, the Lakers clear a training camp spot but maintain a pathway for Kelley to remain in the system.

Under the terms of his Exhibit 10 deal, he’s eligible for a bonus of up to $85,300 if he returns to South Bay and spends at least 60 days with the team.

For Kelley, the release is a setback, but the opportunity to continue developing with the Lakers’ G League affiliate could keep him in the mix for another NBA chance down the line.