NBA Market: The Surprising New Signing of the Los Angeles Lakers
Los Angeles residents continue to strengthen their squad while trying to shape it around Luka Doncic.
The Los Angeles Lakers continue to shape their new project after LeBron James' departure and have reached an agreement with Ziaire Williams, who will sign a one-year, $3 million contract. The 24-year-old small forward becomes a new piece for the team led by JJ Redick, who is completely remodeling the lineup for the 2026-27 season around Luka Doncic.
Standing at 6 feet 9 inches tall, Williams brings size, versatility, and depth off the bench after averaging 10.2 points and 2.4 rebounds in the 56 games he played for the Brooklyn Nets last season. His addition follows the departures of LeBron James and Rui Hachimura, providing the Los Angeles coach with a new alternative for the small forward and power forward positions.
With this move, the Lakers temporarily complete a 15-player roster after a very active summer, during which they also re-signed Austin Reaves and signed Walker Kessler, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Collin Sexton, Quentin Grimes, and Kevon Looney. However, the franchise is still working to potentially bring in Jonathan Kuminga, a move that may require making roster space through a trade or the departure of another player.
Williams' Career
Drafted at 10th overall in the 2021 Draft, Williams spent his first three seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies before joining the Brooklyn Nets in 2024. Additionally, he is familiar with the Lakers environment, having attended Sierra Canyon High School with Bronny James, current point guard for the Los Angeles team and son of LeBron James.
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