Robbie Avila Joins the LA Lakers: A New Gem for the Purple and Gold?

In a strategic move following the 2026 NBA draft, the Los Angeles Lakers are continuing to bolster their roster with fresh, young talent. The team has officially reached an agreement with undrafted free agent Robbie Avila, signaling a keen interest in his unique skill set.

According to reports from Jon Chepkevich of Draft Express, Avila is set to sign an Exhibit-10 contract. For those unfamiliar with the NBA’s complex contract structures, this deal provides a golden opportunity for undrafted players to showcase their abilities during the NBA Summer League and potentially earn a spot on the final roster or a guaranteed G League contract.

Who is Robbie Avila? A Journey of Excellence

Robbie Avila isn’t just another undrafted player; he comes with a pedigree of collegiate success that demands attention. The 22-year-old spent a dynamic four-year college career splitting his time between Indiana State and Saint Louis.

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• The Indiana State Era (2022-2024): Avila was a cornerstone for the Sycamores, helping lead them to a stellar 32-7 record in his second year. This achievement placed the team just one win shy of the legendary 1978-79 squad that featured the great Larry Bird.
• The Transition to Saint Louis: Following head coach Josh Schertz’s move to Saint Louis in April 2024, Avila transferred to keep the partnership alive. This move paid off, as Saint Louis secured a No. 9 seed in the NCAA tournament, eventually falling to the national champion Michigan in the second round.

Award-Winning Stats and Skill Set

Avila’s impact on the court is undeniable. For the 2025-26 season, he was named the A-10 Player of the Year, a testament to his versatility and leadership. His stats tell a story of efficiency and playmaking:

Average Per Game: 12.8 points | 4.5 rebounds | 4.1 assists
Shooting Efficiency: 49.7% FG | 41.0% from beyond the arc (3PT)

The Road to the NBA: Challenges and Opportunities

Despite his accolades, the road to a permanent NBA spot isn’t without hurdles. Scouts have raised concerns regarding Avila’s speed and athleticism, questioning if his game will translate to the faster, more physical pace of the professional league.

This is precisely why the Exhibit-10 contract is so pivotal. It allows the Los Angeles Lakers to evaluate his high basketball IQ and shooting touch in a live environment. Simultaneously, it gives Avila a high-profile platform to prove his doubters wrong and attract interest from other NBA teams looking for skilled bigs for their G League affiliates.

Final Thoughts

Will Robbie Avila become the next unexpected success story in Los Angeles? While the questions about his athleticism persist, his track record of winning and efficiency makes him an intriguing addition to the Lakers’ development pipeline. Basketball fans will be keeping a close eye on the Summer League to see if Avila can turn this opportunity into a long-term NBA career.