What's Happening?
The Los Angeles Lakers have waived RJ Davis, along with three other players, as part of their roster adjustments. Davis, who signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Lakers on July 26, is anticipated to join the South Bay Lakers, the team's G League affiliate.
During the preseason, Davis played in five games, averaging 16.1 minutes, 8.6 points, and 1.4 rebounds per game. He demonstrated strong shooting skills, achieving a 50% success rate from the three-point line and making 13 out of 14 free-throw attempts. His standout performance was on October 3 against the Phoenix Suns, where he scored 14 points in 18 minutes. The G League camps are set to open on October 27, with the season beginning on November 7.
Why It's Important?
The decision to waive RJ Davis and his subsequent move to the G League highlights the Lakers' strategy to develop young talent through their affiliate team. This move allows Davis to gain more playing time and experience, which is crucial for his development as a professional player. For the Lakers, this strategy helps maintain a competitive roster while nurturing potential future stars. The G League serves as a vital platform for players like Davis to refine their skills and potentially earn a spot on the main roster in the future. This approach reflects a broader trend in the NBA, where teams increasingly rely on their G League affiliates to cultivate talent.
What's Next?
As RJ Davis transitions to the South Bay Lakers, he will have the opportunity to showcase his abilities in the G League, which could lead to a call-up to the NBA if he performs well. The South Bay Lakers will finalize their roster by October 6, and Davis will be part of the team as they prepare for the season starting on November 7. His performance in the G League will be closely monitored by the Lakers' management, who may consider him for future opportunities based on his development and contributions to the team.
