The Memphis Grizzlies have signed former Los Angeles Lakers center Christian Koloko to a 10-day contract via the hardship exception, adding more frontcourt depth amid roster pressure.
NBA insider Shams Charania reported the move on Monday, December 22, confirming Memphis’ short-term signing as the club struggles with injuries and availability issues.
Koloko, 25, joins a Grizzlies team that is hovering around .500 at 13-15 and looking to stabilize its domestic minutes behind Jaren Jackson Jr. and Zach Edey. The move gives Memphis a new rim protection option without a long-term commitment.
The path from the center to the competition has been a conscious choice after a 2023-2024 season that was lost due to illness. He returned on September 16, 2024 on a two-way deal with the Lakers, pending medical clearance and a risk waiver.
Koloko received clearance from the NBA’s fitness-to-play panel on October 29, allowing him to practice and resume game action. He made his Lakers debut on November 6 against Memphis when Anthony Davis was unavailable and Christian Wood was rehabbing knee surgery.
His role was later expanded in November after Jaxson Hayes was diagnosed with a left ankle sprain. Still, roster turnover ensued and Koloko was waived on November 25, 2025, after Los Angeles signed Drew Timme.
During his NBA career, Koloko played in 97 regular season games with 19 starts, averaging 2.8 points, 2.7 rebounds and 0.8 blocks in 11.9 minutes. His efficiency is a calling card, highlighted by a 51.9 percent field goal percentage and reliable finishing around the rim.
Originally drafted by the Toronto Raptors, he showed defensive promise as a rookie in 2022-23, posting 0.4 blocks per game in limited minutes. The following year the momentum slowed away from the floor, but his return last season restored his availability.
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