The Los Angeles Lakers recently took a page out of the New York Knicks’ book by rounding out their training camp roster ahead of the Sep. 29 start date.
On Saturday, Los Angeles signed a 6-foot-8 former Knicks forward to support Luka Doncic.
“The Los Angeles Lakers have signed forward Anton Watson and guard Nate Williams,” the organization announced on X/Twitter.
Before joining the NBA in 2019, Watson was an integral part of Gonzaga’s consistent dominance in the WCC.
The 24-year-old was a force to be reckoned with in the low post and transformed into a capable stretch four by the time his senior season arrived.
Watson averaged 14.5 points and 7.1 rebounds per game during his final collegiate season, shooting 57.8% from the field and 41.2% from beyond the arc.
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
The Coeur d’Alene, Idaho native was selected No. 54 overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2024 NBA Draft, but lasted less than six months with the 18-time champions.
The Knicks elected to sign Watson for the remainder of the 2024-25 season, allowing him to log legitimate NBA minutes for the first time.
Watson averaged 0.9 points and 0.3 rebounds per game, connecting on 44.4% of his field goals in nine contests.
The ex-first team All-WCC member could make an early-career statement by making the Lakers’ star-studded opening night roster.
More NBA: Knicks sign 6-foot-6 former Celtics guard to assist Jalen Brunson