Lakers Sign Free Agent Forward To Team-Friendly Deal

July 13, 2026 ,
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The Brooklyn Nets declined his $6.25 million team option after the past season, but Ziaire Williams has taken his talents to the Los Angeles Lakers on a team-friendly deal, for $3 million. 

The Lakers were looking to get younger and more athletic on the wing. The 6'9" Williams is the perfect addition to that end. He is extremely versatile on the defensive end, able to disrupt passing lanes and switch onto guards or forwards. 

His athleticism and speed also make him a dangerous weapon in the open court and on fast breaks. 

Williams averaged over 10 points per game in each of the last two seasons with the Brooklyn Nets, switching between starting and the second unit, averaging 23.7 minutes a game over that time.

He had also been courted by the New Orleans Pelicans in free agency, but the Lakers win the day here.

For Williams, it's a trip back home to LA. He was teammates with Bronny James at Sierra Canyon High School.

The Lakers had been linked to interest in Jonathan Kuminga. But nabbing Williams for $3M compared to Kuminga's $20M+ ask seems like a steal. Will they still pursue Kuminga as a starter at forward? That remains to be seen. 



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