Lakers’ Ziaire Williams reveals how he can thrive with Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves

Ziaire Williams was an under-the-radar acquisition of the Los Angeles Lakers in the offseason. The Lakers are his third team in six years, and Williams is eager to carve out a consistent role and play for the Purple and Gold for a long time.

He is in a surreal situation. He was a die-hard fan of the Lakers growing up in Lancaster, California. Now, he will suit up for his childhood team, and certainly, he does not want to take it for granted. While he will likely come off the bench and play behind Austin Reaves, Jake LaRavia, Quentin Grimes, and Dalton Knecht, the 24-year-old forward has the tools to make a two-way impact.

In a report from The OC Register’s Benjamin Royer, Williams said he is willing to do the dirty work, acknowledging that Reaves and Luka Doncic will have the lion’s share of the scoring opportunities.

He said coach JJ Redick and general manager Rob Pelinka told him to focus on “being a main defender, point-of-attack defender.”

“Obviously, Luka and AR are going to be the main primary ball handlers. So just playing off them, being able to shoot, cut, make plays in transition, stuff like that. They thought it was a great fit for me to be here, and the feeling was mutual,” added Williams.

He signed a one-year, $3 million contract with the Lakers in July.

He probably feels very much at home already. Not only is he near his family and friends, but he also reunited with Bronny James, who was his teammate at Sierra Canyon in high school.

Williams is coming off a strong campaign with the Brooklyn Nets, averaging career-highs of 10.2 points, 34.3% three-point shooting, and 1.4 steals in 56 games. He can be a prototypical 3-and-D stud for Los Angeles, especially with his length and athleticism.

“I think we’re going to be great. There’s a lot of motivation here and a lot of guys who are ready to prove and willing that we’re capable of playing on a winning stage,” added Williams.

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