As the 2025 NBA offseason heats up, the Los Angeles Lakers appear poised to retool their roster following a disappointing campaign in which their bench failed to provide meaningful support to superstars LeBron James and Luka Dončić. After a second-round playoff exit, the front office is now actively exploring ways to strengthen a second unit that ranked 29th in the league in bench scoring, averaging just 26.2 points per game during the regular season.
General manager Rob Pelinka has already addressed one of the team’s most glaring needs — interior presence — by bringing in former No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton. The 7-footer was signed to a surprisingly affordable two-year, $16.6 million contract on Wednesday. Though Ayton’s addition solidifies the team’s center rotation, it’s clear that Pelinka isn’t finished making moves.
Now, attention is turning toward the backcourt, where the Lakers may be eyeing a reunion with an exciting, high-energy player who has already made a name for himself in the G-League and on the NBA’s biggest All-Star stage. That player is none other than Mac McClung — a two-time Slam Dunk Contest champion and one of the most electrifying athletes outside of the league’s traditional spotlight.
McClung, who spent time with the Lakers during the 2021–22 season and became a fan favorite with the South Bay Lakers, was just made an unrestricted free agent after the Orlando Magic rescinded their qualifying offer, according to Spotrac’s Keith Smith.
“The Orlando Magic have withdrawn the qualifying offer for Mac McClung, a league source told Spotrac,” Smith reported on Thursday.
This development makes McClung an intriguing option for a Lakers team that’s seeking scoring punch, athleticism, and youthful energy off the bench. Despite limited NBA playing time, McClung has been a dominant force in the G-League, consistently putting up big scoring numbers and showing the kind of court vision and leadership that could translate well in a reserve role. His ability to create offense off the dribble and finish with flair at the rim would immediately inject life into a Lakers bench that has lacked identity and firepower.
McClung’s resume is also bolstered by his growing popularity and entertainment value. He stole the show in the 2023 and 2024 NBA Slam Dunk Contests, becoming the first back-to-back winner since Zach LaVine and capturing the attention of basketball fans worldwide. While dunk contests don’t always translate to NBA success, McClung has steadily evolved his game beyond highlight dunks, refining his playmaking skills and long-range shooting.
The Lakers, who have long balanced championship aspirations with marquee entertainment appeal, could find in McClung the perfect blend of on-court production and fan engagement. Moreover, his prior stint with the organization means he’s already familiar with the Lakers’ system and culture.
With LeBron James entering his 23rd season and Luka Dončić commanding constant defensive attention, adding a dynamic, low-cost guard like McClung could provide the offensive spark Los Angeles desperately needs from its second unit.
As the offseason continues, all eyes will be on the Lakers’ front office to see whether they seize this opportunity and bring back one of basketball’s most exciting underdog stories for a second act in Hollywood.