The Los Angeles Lakers knew they needed to improve their perimeter defense this offseason and one of the players they added was wing Ziaire Williams, who is coming off the best year of his career with the Brooklyn Nets. The move also marks a return home for Williams after growing up in Southern California and graduating from Sierra Canyon High School where he was a McDonald’s All-American and teamed with his now-Lakers teammate, Bronny James.
Williams grew up a huge fan of the Lakers and now has the opportunity to suit up for his favorite team. And just seeing his name on the back of his jersey is something he never thought would happen.
“Seeing my name on the Lakers jersey was super surreal, a blessing,” Williams said in a Get to Know interview on Lakers YouTube. “I can’t even explain it into words I’m just so excited to be back home, playing in front of the fans, my family and I never would’ve imagined this day would come true. 8-year old me is doing backflips right now. It’s crazy, I just can’t wait to play a real game. I’m ready to play right now.”
Bringing in Williams on a minimum deal is a low-risk move for the Lakers that could potentially pay major dividends. Williams was a highly-touted high school player and a lottery pick of the Memphis Grizzlies, being taken 10th overall in 2021. It has taken him a few years to get comfortable in the NBA, but he seems to be finding his footing and has shown some real flashes since getting more of an opportunity with the Nets.
In two seasons in Brooklyn, Williams has averaged 10.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.2 steals. At 6’9, he has the size to guard big wings and his overall defensive versatility is impressive. He understands his role and embraces that side of the court. And while he isn’t the best shooter, he has improved and has shot over 34% in each of the last two seasons after knocking down just 30.1% in his first three seasons.
Williams will have to battle with Matisse Thybulle, Adou Thiero and Cameron Carr for rotation minutes on the wing, but the opportunity for him to carve out a role is there and he will be extremely motivated to put on a show for his hometown squad.
Mychal Thompson trying to get Klay Thompson to Lakers
The Lakers have popped up as a possibility to land another wing in all-time great 3-point shooter Klay Thompson. And his father Mychal Thompson, a former Lakers champion and current radio analyst for the team, says he’s trying to get his son on the purple and gold.
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