September 12, 2025
Los Angeles Lakers
Former Los Angeles Lakers two-way center Trey Jemison III is attracting attention from NBA teams after being left out of the Lakers’ plans.
According to SNY’s Ian Begley, the New York Knicks are considering the 25-year-old big man for one of their remaining two-way roster spots. “Big man Trey Jemison III is among the players on New York’s radar as they plan for camp,” Begley reported.
Jemison’s Lakers Role
Jemison split last season between the Lakers and their G League affiliate, South Bay, on a two-way contract. In 22 NBA appearances, the 6-foot-11 center averaged 2.6 points and 2.8 rebounds in just over 10 minutes per game, providing toughness and energy off the bench. In the G League, he averaged 10.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks, showcasing his defensive presence and rebounding ability.
He became a physical presence for Los Angeles after the team traded Anthony Davis to acquire Luka Dončić. Jemison’s effort gave the Lakers added depth in the frontcourt, but offseason moves pushed him out of the rotation.
Frontcourt Competition
The Lakers added Deandre Ayton from the buyout market, kept Jaxson Hayes as a backup center, and signed Christian Koloko on a two-way deal. With only one two-way slot left heading into training camp, Jemison was squeezed out. Prospects competing for that final spot include Lithuanian guard Augustas Marciulionis, North Carolina’s RJ Davis, Villanova forward Eric Dixon, Arthur Kaluma, and center Kyllor Kelley.
Ayton’s Pivotal Season
Los Angeles now turns to Ayton to anchor the paint alongside Dončić. Playing with Dončić could elevate Ayton’s game, as pick-and-roll sets with the star guard have been highly efficient across the league. However, Ayton’s past inconsistency and health issues raise questions about his ability to hold the role long term. He averaged 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds with Portland last season and is playing for his next contract, with a player option looming in 2026-27.
Jemison’s Next Step
Despite being edged out in Los Angeles, Jemison’s size, physicality, and defensive ability make him an appealing option for teams like the Knicks seeking a reliable depth piece. While the Lakers move forward with Ayton and Dončić leading their core, Jemison could find a new opportunity to carve out a role elsewhere in the NBA.
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