Lakers Add Peter Suder After Draft, Bolster Young Core With Two-Way Contracts

The Los Angeles Lakers were unable to secure the prospect they targeted during the closing stages of the 2026 NBA Draft, but the organization wasted little time finding alternative ways to add promising young talent. Following the draft, the Lakers turned to the undrafted free-agent market, where they signed former Miami (Ohio) standout Peter Suder and Vanderbilt forward AK Okereke to two-way contracts.

Los Angeles had reportedly traded into the second round hoping to select North Carolina center Henri Veesaar. However, before the Lakers had the opportunity to make their selection, the Atlanta Hawks completed a trade with the Los Angeles Clippers and selected Veesaar, forcing the Lakers to reconsider their plans. The organization ultimately traded out of the draft instead of making another selection.

Rather than viewing the setback as a missed opportunity, the Lakers quickly shifted their attention toward acquiring players they believed could develop within their system. By signing Suder and Okereke, the franchise continued its long-standing strategy of identifying overlooked prospects capable of growing through the G League and eventually contributing at the NBA level.

Among the two newcomers, Suder arrives with an especially impressive collegiate résumé. His combination of efficient scoring, playmaking ability, and winning experience made him one of the more intriguing undrafted players available after the draft concluded.

1. Lakers Adapt After Draft Plans Change

The Lakers entered the latter stages of the draft with a clear objective. Reports indicated the organization targeted North Carolina big man Henri Veesaar after acquiring the 56th overall selection from the Chicago Bulls, believing the versatile frontcourt player could strengthen the team’s young core. Those plans changed quickly when the Hawks completed their own trade to move ahead of Los Angeles and select Veesaar before the Lakers were on the clock. Rather than reaching for another prospect, the Lakers elected to move out of the second round altogether. While the decision left the team without a draft selection in the closing stages, it also allowed the front office to aggressively pursue undrafted free agents immediately after the draft ended. Organizations often identify several players they value similarly, regardless of whether they are selected late in the draft or become available afterward. That approach enabled the Lakers to secure commitments from both Suder and Okereke. By acting quickly in free agency, the franchise added two developmental prospects without using a draft pick, preserving roster flexibility while continuing to invest in future talent.

2. Peter Suder Brings Winning Experience

Suder joins the Lakers after concluding an outstanding collegiate career at Miami (Ohio). During his final season, he established himself as one of the team’s most productive players while helping guide the program through one of the most successful campaigns in school history. The guard was part of a remarkable Miami (Ohio) squad that completed an undefeated 31-0 regular season, making the team one of college basketball’s biggest success stories. His consistent production and efficient offensive play were key reasons behind that historic achievement. In 33 appearances, Suder averaged 14.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.3 steals while playing just over 31 minutes per game. He also displayed outstanding shooting efficiency, connecting on 54.6 percent of his field-goal attempts, 42.1 percent from three-point range, and 73.4 percent from the free-throw line. Those numbers highlight the balanced offensive skill set that attracted the Lakers. In addition to his perimeter shooting, Suder demonstrated the ability to create opportunities for teammates and contribute in multiple statistical categories, traits that could help him earn future NBA opportunities.

3. Two-Way Deals Offer a Development Path

Suder’s contract gives the Lakers additional flexibility as they continue developing young players. Two-way agreements allow NBA teams to move players between the NBA roster and the G League throughout the season without those contracts counting against the league’s salary cap. Under league rules, Suder can appear in up to 50 regular-season NBA games while on a two-way contract. If the Lakers decide he has earned a permanent role, they would need to convert his agreement into a standard NBA contract before he could become eligible for postseason competition. The Lakers have regularly used two-way contracts to evaluate young talent in recent years. Although not every signing develops into a full-time NBA contributor, the system provides organizations with valuable opportunities to assess prospects in both the NBA and G League environments before making long-term commitments. Fans should receive an early look at Suder when Summer League begins next month. Alongside fellow two-way signee AK Okereke and first-round draft pick Cameron Carr, the former Miami (Ohio) guard will have an opportunity to showcase his skills as he begins competing for a future place on the Lakers’ roster.