The Los Angeles Lakers announced they have signed Johnathan Williams, a Gonzaga product who played for the team in Las Vegas Summer League. Per team policy, the terms of the deal were not disclosed, but this is likely just a training camp invite or Exhibit 10 contract that could later be converted into a two-way deal.
With Williams’ addition, the Lakers now have 19 of the allowable 20 players on their roster for training camp, while already having all 15 guaranteed contracts that they are allowed to hold during the regular season with their addition of Michael Beasley on Friday.
The Lakers currently only have one player on a two-way contract (Alex Caruso) after waiving Malik Newman earlier this week. Willliams — who played well during his seven games in Las Vegas, averaging 4.4 points and 4.6 rebounds in 24.6 minutes per game — could be a candidate for their second two-way deal, either through a conversion of his contract if it’s an Exhibit 10 deal or by earning it with his play in training camp.
However, the Lakers could also opt to give their second two-way deal to Joel Berry or Jeffrey Carroll, both of whom they announced would be with them in training camp this week. The team could additionally opt to give their second two-way to the 20th player they add for training camp, or a player that unexpectedly gets cut loose by another team.
Still, Williams would seem to have a real shot at grabbing that second two-way, and one thing is certain: With so many players either fighting for roles in the rotation or simply to get a spot on the roster, the Lakers’ training camp this season will be one of the most competitive in recent memory.
All stats per NBA.com and Basketball-Reference.com. You can follow Harrison on Twitter at @hmfaigen.