The Los Angeles Lakers have started to build around Luka Doncic this summer. One of Doncic’s new teammates is Ziaire Williams, who signed a one-year, veteran minimum contract. The 6-foot-9 forward had just finished one of the best seasons of his career with the Brooklyn Nets.
He appeared in 56 games last season, averaging 10.2 points and 2.4 rebounds on 34.3% shooting from deep. With the Lakers, however, they do not expect Williams to do much on the offensive end. According to the former Stanford standout, the front office wants him to focus on becoming one of the team’s best defenders.
Williams talked to Benjamin Royer of the Southern California News Group on Monday. During the exclusive interview, he revealed the early conversations with head coach JJ Redick and president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka regarding his role.
“First and foremost, being a main defender, point-of-attack defender,” Williams said.
“I just thought it was a great opportunity,” he added. “Being that big wing, versatile player that they needed, I just thought it was a great opportunity for me to be a Laker.”
The Lakers will likely rely on Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves on offense. However, Williams will be a major part of the team’s defensive identity. He’s a versatile forward who is big enough to cover multiple positions.
Ziaire Williams is Excited to Play Alongside Luka DoncicLuka Doncic is expected to lead the Lakers next season. Doncic assumed leadership duties after LeBron James departed this summer to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Ahead of the new year, Ziaire Williams expressed excitement about playing alongside Doncic and witnessing how he leads the Lakers.
“I can tell (Doncic’s) leadership. He wants to step up even more this year,” Williams said. “I’m excited, man. I’m really excited to play with him. And of course, when we’re playing basketball, it’s just he makes the game just so easy and looks so simple.
“He’s going to make my life a lot easier for sure.”
This won’t be the first time Doncic will be the best player on a team. When he was with the Dallas Mavericks, he was often viewed as the best player. He led the team in scoring and was one of the best rebounders and facilitators.
Together with Kyrie Irving, he led the Mavericks to the 2024 NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics. However, that was the peak of his time in Dallas, as he was traded the following year.
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