Los Angeles Lakers has finally complete the signing of Blake Hinson and Armel Traore… See More…
The Los Angeles Lakers have signed forwards Blake Hinson and Armel Traore to two-way contracts, it was announced today by Vice President of Basketball Operations and General Manager Rob Pelinka. Terms of the deals were not released.
Hinson (6’8”, 230) started all 33 games last season for the University of Pittsburgh, averaging 18.5 points and 4.4 rebounds in 33.6 minutes while shooting an ACC-best 42.1 percent from 3-point range.
The Florida native ranked second in the conference in 3-point field goals made (110) and third in points per game last season, earning him All-ACC First Team honors.
Prior to his two campaigns at Pittsburgh (2022-24), Hinson competed two seasons at the University of Mississippi (2018-20). Across the four seasons, the 24-year-old averaged 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 30.1 minutes.
Traore (6’8”, 210) appeared in 33 games (28 starts) last season for ADA Blois of the LNB Élite in his home country of France, averaging 10.8 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists in 25.5 minutes.
Across three seasons overseas for ADA Blois, Metropolitans 92 (2022-23) and AS Monaco (2021-22), the 21-year-old posted averages of 7.7 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.0 assists in 18.2 minutes.
Hinson will wear jersey No. 36 for the Purple and Gold, while Traore will wear No. 37. Both will suit up for the Lakers’ 2024 summer league team.
