The Los Angeles Lakers made headlines post-2026 NBA Draft by adding Anton Watson, a 6-foot-8 forward with previous experience playing for the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics, to their Summer League squad. This strategic move aims to bolster their roster with promising talent for the upcoming season, following a series of undrafted and Summer League deals.
Lakers Secure Anton Watson for Summer League Roster
Immediately after the conclusion of the 2026 NBA Draft, the Los Angeles Lakers wasted no time in making strategic acquisitions, signing several players to undrafted and Summer League agreements. Among these signings, a notable addition was Anton Watson, a versatile 6-foot-8 forward who previously showcased his talents with both the New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics. This move signifies the Lakers' proactive approach to talent scouting and development, aiming to identify and cultivate players who can potentially contribute to the team's future success. Watson's inclusion in the Summer League roster provides him with another opportunity to impress and secure a more permanent role within the franchise, highlighting the competitive nature of post-draft player recruitment in the NBA.
Theo Lawson of the Spokesman Review first reported the signing, noting that Watson would be joining his third different NBA Summer League team. Watson, a distinguished alumnus of Gonzaga University, had previously participated in the Summer League with the Celtics in 2024 and the Knicks in 2025. His collegiate career at Gonzaga spanned five successful years, where he honed his skills and gained valuable experience. Although he was a 54th overall pick by the Celtics in the 2024 NBA Draft, Watson primarily spent his rookie season with their G-League affiliate, the Maine Celtics, before being waived. He then had a brief stint with the Knicks during the 2024-25 campaign, contributing modestly in nine appearances. Notably, Watson had a prior connection with the Lakers, having joined them last September, but did not make the final opening night roster. This background sets the stage for an intriguing performance in the upcoming Summer League.
Anton Watson's Journey Through the NBA Development Pipeline
Anton Watson's professional journey reflects the challenging path many aspiring NBA players face, navigating between G-League assignments and brief NBA stints. After his initial release from the Celtics, Watson joined the New York Knicks, where he saw limited action during the 2024-25 season. His contributions averaged around 0.9 points, 0.3 rebounds, and 0.2 assists over nine games. This period underscored the intense competition for roster spots and playing time in the league. Despite these hurdles, Watson continued to demonstrate his resilience and commitment to his basketball career, leveraging every opportunity to showcase his abilities and prove his worth to NBA franchises. His consistent effort and willingness to adapt are key attributes for players striving to make a mark in professional basketball.
Following his previous engagement with the Lakers in September, which did not result in a spot on the opening night roster, Watson transitioned to the South Bay Lakers, the Los Angeles Lakers' G-League affiliate. During his time there, he delivered solid performances, averaging 10.4 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists across 16 contests. This experience in the G-League proved invaluable, allowing him to maintain his form, refine his skills, and demonstrate his potential in a competitive environment. His upcoming participation in the Summer League with Los Angeles is therefore highly anticipated, as it represents a significant chance for him to exhibit his growth and secure a more stable position within an NBA organization. Observers will be keen to see how his extensive developmental experiences translate into his performance on the Summer League stage.
