Robbie Avila’s Lakers Tryout: A Rising Star’s Path After Being Snubbed in the Draft

Robbie Avila, a 22-year-old center from the University of Nevada, has been granted a training camp tryout with the Los Angeles Lakers, according to multiple sources familiar with the team’s roster decisions. The move comes after Avila went unselected in the 2024 NBA Draft, despite being compared to Nikola Jokic during his collegiate career. The Lakers’ decision to evaluate Avila highlights the ongoing trend of teams giving opportunities to undrafted players with unique skill sets.

Avila, who averaged 14.2 points and 9.8 rebounds per game in his final season at Nevada, is viewed as a potential developmental prospect. His combination of size (7’1″), basketball IQ, and playmaking ability has drawn comparisons to the Denver Nuggets’ All-Star center. However, scouts have noted his lack of elite athleticism as a potential hurdle to his NBA prospects.

Why This Tryout Matters for Avila and the Lakers

The Lakers’ interest in Avila reflects their strategy of exploring depth options amid roster uncertainties. With the team’s center position in transition following the departure of Dwight Howard and the injury concerns surrounding Anthony Davis, the organization is evaluating multiple candidates. Avila’s tryout could provide valuable insight into his readiness for the professional game.

For Avila, the opportunity represents a critical step in his career. Undrafted players often face significant challenges in breaking into the NBA, with only 12% of undrafted free agents making a permanent roster in the past decade. His performance during the tryout will determine whether he secures a two-way contract or a spot on the G League squad.

Avila’s Collegiate Career and Draft Projection

Avila’s college career at Nevada showcased his versatility as a post player. He recorded 13 double-doubles in the 2023-24 season and led the Mountain West Conference in field goal percentage (.632). His ability to facilitate the offense from the frontcourt earned him the nickname “College Jokic” from several college basketball analysts.

Despite his production, Avila fell out of the draft after a lackluster performance in the 2024 NBA Combine. His vertical leap measured 29.5 inches, below the league average for centers. Scouts also questioned his defensive positioning and ability to protect the rim against quicker opponents. These concerns contributed to his exclusion from the first and second rounds.

Historical Context: Undrafted Players Who Made Impact

Avila’s situation mirrors the journeys of several successful undrafted players. Players like Danny Green (2011) and Chris Boucher (2018) overcame draft-day snubs to become key contributors. The Lakers themselves signed undrafted free agents like D’Angelo Russell (2015) and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (2013) who later became starters.

Modern NBA teams increasingly value positional flexibility and basketball IQ, which aligns with Avila’s skill set. His ability to handle the ball and make plays for teammates could make him an attractive option for a team looking for a developmental project.

What’s Next for Avila and the Lakers

The Lakers are expected to finalize their training camp roster by late September. Avila’s performance during the tryout will be evaluated against other prospects, including undrafted free agents and international signees. If he impresses, he could earn a two-way contract, which would allow him to split time between the Lakers and their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers.

For the Lakers, the tryout represents a low-risk investment in a player with upside. The team has a history of developing young talent, as seen with the progression of D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves. Avila’s ability to adapt to the NBA’s pace and physicality will be crucial in determining his future.

How to Follow the Story

Updates on Avila’s tryout and the Lakers’ training camp roster will be available through official NBA channels and the team’s digital platforms. Fans can track his progress via the Lakers’ YouTube channel and Twitter account. The team’s official website will also provide live coverage of training camp activities.

The NBA’s official website offers a comprehensive database of all undrafted free agents and their current team affiliations. This resource can help track Avila’s development and compare him to other prospects in the league.

As the 2024-25 season approaches, Avila’s journey serves as a reminder of the opportunities available to determined players. Whether he secures a long-term spot in the league or