Lakers' Drew Timme Emphasizes 'Adapt or Die' Mentality for Evolving Offensive Game

The two-way contract forward has worked to develop a consistent 3-point shot to fit the modern NBA game.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Los Angeles Lakers two-way contract forward Drew Timme spoke about the need to adapt his offensive game to the evolving NBA, particularly by developing a consistent 3-point shot. Timme acknowledged that as the league has trended more towards perimeter shooting, he had to make changes to his post-focused game from his college days at Gonzaga. Since joining the Lakers, Timme has increased his 3-point attempts and percentage, showcasing his ability to expand his offensive skillset.

Why it matters

Timme's comments highlight the pressure young players face to adapt their games to the modern NBA style, which increasingly prioritizes floor spacing and perimeter shooting. His willingness to work on his weaknesses demonstrates the dedication required to carve out a long-term NBA career, especially for two-way contract players looking to earn a full roster spot.

The details

During his college career at Gonzaga, Timme was known as a dominant post scorer, taking only a few 3-point attempts per season. However, as he transitioned to the NBA with the Brooklyn Nets and now the Lakers, he recognized the need to develop a consistent outside shot. Since joining the Lakers on a two-way deal, Timme has taken 17 3-pointers, connecting on 41.2% of them - the highest percentage of his career. Timme credited extensive offseason work and being 'uncomfortable' taking those shots as key to improving his long-range accuracy.

  • Timme signed a two-way contract with the Lakers in November 2025.
  • During the Lakers' loss to the Spurs on February 11, 2026, Timme spoke about his evolving offensive game.

The players

Drew Timme

A two-way contract forward for the Los Angeles Lakers who has worked to expand his offensive game, particularly by developing a consistent 3-point shot, since entering the NBA.

Los Angeles Lakers

The NBA team that Drew Timme currently plays for on a two-way contract, providing him opportunities to showcase his evolving skillset.

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What they’re saying

“The more the league started to change, it's obviously adapt or die. It's Darwinism. If you wanted something and you want to get to this level, you have to do whatever the trend of the game is.”

— Drew Timme, Lakers two-way contract forward (clutchpoints.com)

“And the trend was obviously more and more threes. It was hard in college, obviously I was working on it. But it's hard when you're so good at scoring in the post...it's hard when you're trying to win, to work on your game as well.”

— Drew Timme, Lakers two-way contract forward (clutchpoints.com)

What’s next

Timme will look to continue improving his 3-point shooting and expanding his offensive game as he aims to earn a full NBA roster spot with the Lakers.

The takeaway

Timme's comments underscore the evolving demands of the modern NBA, where even talented post scorers like himself must adapt their games to fit the league's increasing emphasis on perimeter shooting and floor spacing. His willingness to put in the work to develop a consistent 3-point shot demonstrates the dedication required for young players to carve out long-term NBA careers.