Sports

Ziaire Williams Career Reset: From Top 10 Pick to Lakers Value Signing

By Manika

Posted on October 17, 2026

5 min read

Ziaire Williams Lakers Signing highlights the former Memphis Grizzlies and Brooklyn Nets forward's move to Los Angeles on a one-year contract, offering an opportunity to rebuild his NBA career.

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Last Updated: October 17, 2026 at 08:47 pm

The Los Angeles Lakers’ new player Ziaire Williams, a former NBA lottery pick, is in a pivotal year. The 25-year-old attacker, who was a potential star in his youth, is now looking for some consistency and structure. The Ziaire Williams Lakers Signing will give him a chance to redeem himself, and Los Angeles some cheap wing depth.

Of all the Lakers’ summer additions Ziaire Williams is the one who has occupied my mind the most recently.

So, of course, I did what any normal person on vacation would do: an extensive film+data breakdown of his defense.

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— Iztok Franko (@iztok_franko) September 7, 2026

Ziaire Williams Lakers Signing: Contract and Salary Details

After leaving the Brooklyn Nets, the Lakers inked Williams on July 19, 2026. His one-year minimum contract, according to SalarySwish, is worth $2.85 million and is subject to a $2.45 million salary-cap charge. The relatively cheap deal provides LA with a veteran forward who isn’t tied up for long-term.

From 2021 NBA Top 10 Draft Pick to Memphis Grizzlies

Williams is a 2021 college basketball grad who was drafted by the NBA’s 10th overall pick. His first professional team was the Memphis Grizzlies, with high expectations. His inconsistent shooting, injuries and playing time, however, curtailed his development, and eventually found him a new chance elsewhere.

Brooklyn Nets Career and Second Chance With Los Angeles

Williams signed with Brooklyn in 2024 and had a ton of experience in a evolving Nets rotation. He had a lot of potential in terms of athleticism, defensive versatility and perimeter shooting. Production from the offense, however, was still hard to come by. The change to Los Angeles is the next chance to make those physical tools reliable assets.

How Ziaire Williams Could Fit Into the Lakers Rotation

Williams is a 6-foot-9 wing who could be valuable on the Lakers’ perimeter. He might be able to be used as an added rotation player instead of a goaltender’s number one scorer with head coach JJ Redick. He has been hampered by a recent foot injury that has impacted his presence for preseason, so his health and playing time will be a key consideration in his return.