BREAKING: The Los Angeles Lakers Are Signing Eric Dixon to a Two-Way Contract — College Basketball’s Leading Big Man Gets His NBA Shot
LOS ANGELES, CA — The Los Angeles Lakers are making a low-risk, high-upside move as they continue to retool their roster, signing former Villanova standout Eric Dixon to a two-way contract.
Dixon, known for his dominant inside presence and versatility, led college basketball in scoring among big men last season, averaging 17.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game for the Wildcats. His efficient post play, ability to stretch the floor, and physical frame made him one of the most productive and reliable forwards in the NCAA.
🏀 Who Is Eric Dixon?
At 6-foot-8 and nearly 260 pounds, Dixon brings size, strength, and experience to the Lakers’ frontcourt depth. Despite going undrafted, his consistent production at Villanova, coupled with his improved outside shooting (he shot 38% from three-point range last season), caught the attention of several NBA teams.
But it’s the Lakers who have locked him in, offering a two-way contract that will allow him to split time between the Los Angeles Lakers and their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers.
🔍 Why the Lakers Made the Move
The Lakers’ front office has emphasized building roster flexibility while developing young talent behind established stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis. In Dixon, they get:
✔️ A battle-tested player from a top-tier college program
✔️ A physical big man who can hold his own in the paint
✔️ A developing shooter with stretch-four potential
✔️ A mature, high-IQ player praised for his work ethic
Rob Pelinka, Lakers GM, expressed optimism about Dixon’s potential to contribute:
“We love Eric’s toughness and versatility. His college resume speaks for itself, and we believe with development, he can bring value to our roster,” Pelinka said in a statement.
🔧 What’s a Two-Way Contract?
Under the NBA’s two-way contract structure, Dixon will primarily play with the South Bay Lakers but can spend up to 50 games with the main roster. This gives the Lakers a chance to evaluate his development while providing injury insurance and frontcourt depth.
🗣️ What Dixon Brings to the Table
Post Scoring: Dixon was a go-to option at Villanova, using his strength and footwork to score efficiently inside.
Floor Spacing: His improved three-point shooting adds value in today’s stretch-heavy NBA.
Physical Defense: While not the tallest big, his build allows him to hold his ground against opposing forwards and centers.
High Basketball IQ: Playing under Villanova coach Jay Wright has instilled discipline and smart decision-making in his game.
📅 What’s Next?
Dixon is expected to join the Lakers for Summer League, where he’ll have an early opportunity to showcase his skills against NBA-caliber competition. If his game translates, the Lakers could find themselves with a hidden gem — and yet another example of undrafte
d players making an impact in L.A.
