The Los Angeles Lakers have announced new additions to their preseason squad, formalizing Exhibit 10 contracts with Anton Watson and Nate Williams. This strategic move coincides with the departure of Eric Dixon and Tevian Jones from the roster, as confirmed by a report from Keith Smith.
Watson, a 2024 second-round draft pick originally selected by the Boston Celtics, has already gained exposure with several NBA teams. Following brief engagements with Boston and New York, the versatile 6-foot-8 forward appeared in nine games for the Knicks during the 2024–25 season, averaging 0.9 points. His primary development, however, occurred in the G League with the Maine Celtics, where he showcased his defensive capabilities and rebounding prowess, averaging 12 points and 5.4 rebounds over 21 contests.
Similarly, Williams, an undrafted player from 2022, has carved out a path through the professional basketball landscape with previous affiliations in Portland and Houston. During the last season, the guard contributed 3.3 points across 20 games for the Rockets before his waiver in July. His G League performance was particularly notable, as he averaged 17.3 points and 4.0 assists over eight games for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in the 2024–25 season. Exhibit 10 contracts offer these athletes a potential route to a two-way deal or an assignment to the Lakers' G League affiliate, providing a crucial opportunity to further their professional careers should they not secure a spot on the main roster.
These roster adjustments by the Lakers underscore a commitment to evaluating and developing emerging talent, ensuring a competitive and dynamic team for the upcoming season. Such moves are vital in professional sports, fostering growth and providing pathways for promising athletes to demonstrate their full potential, ultimately contributing to the vibrancy and competitive spirit of the league.
