Lakers Sign Ziaire Williams to One-Year $3M Deal

New Wing Adds Depth to Lakers’ Rotation

Los Angeles has added a youthful presence to its revamped roster, agreeing to a one‑year, $3 million pact with forward Ziaire Williams. The 24‑year‑old small forward, who grew up in Lancaster, California, spent the last two seasons with the Brooklyn Nets after three years in Memphis. This move caps a 15‑player roster that now centers on Luka Dončić and a fresh core.

Williams, the 2021 NBA Draft’s No. 10 overall pick, brings a 6‑foot‑9 frame, athletic ability and perimeter shooting that the Lakers lacked on the wing. His most productive stretch came with Brooklyn, where he posted 10.2 points, 2.4 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 56 games last season. Over five seasons he has appeared in 269 games, starting 108, and averages 8.7 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game.

After three seasons with Memphis, Williams earned a larger role in Brooklyn, averaging 10.1 points per game across his two seasons with the Nets. He also raised his three‑point accuracy from 30 percent with the Grizzlies to 34 percent with the Nets. Los Angeles is focused on adding versatile contributors who can support Dončić, Austin Reaves and the new 7‑foot‑2 center Walker Kessler.

How Williams Fits the New Look

Williams gives the Lakers size and shooting that can be used in multiple front‑court combos, addressing a key depth gap on the wing. His capacity to guard several positions provides coach Jodie Meeks with lineup flexibility. The signing completes the roster while keeping the team’s identity anchored around Dončić’s playmaking.

The $3 million contract signals the franchise’s confidence in Williams as a rotational contributor for the upcoming season. The deal’s value reflects both his age and the potential the Lakers see in his skill set. Looking ahead, the acquisition positions Los Angeles to chase a playoff spot with a balanced mix of youth and experience.