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Former Lakers Standout Expected to Be Cut by NBA Team Imminently

Former Lakers guard Kobe Bufkin faces an uncertain future with the New Orleans Pelicans as NBA teams prepare to finalize their rosters.

By Matt Evans · HEAVY

Published: Friday, 16 October 2026 at 4:25 PM

Key Things to Know

Former Lakers guard Kobe Bufkin is reportedly expected to be waived imminently by the New Orleans Pelicans.
Pelicans forward Trendon Watford is expected to secure the final standard roster spot on his partially guaranteed contract.
Bufkin joined New Orleans on a non-guaranteed Exhibit 9 training camp deal ahead of the 2026-27 season.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Former Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bufkin faces an uncertain future and is reportedly expected to be waived by the New Orleans Pelicans. According to Spotrac's Keith Smith, NBA teams are anticipated to cut most players on Exhibit 9 and Exhibit 10 contracts by Saturday, October 17, at 5 p.m. ET to finalize 15-man rosters.

The Pelicans currently hold 14 guaranteed standard deals, filled two-way slots, and are expected to retain Trendon Watford on his partially guaranteed contract over Bufkin. The 23-year-old guard joined New Orleans for training camp after averaging 24.7 points in the G League last season.

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Former Lakers Standout Expected to Be Cut by NBA Team Imminently

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