Lakers Signed Johnson and Ross, Waived Watson
The Los Angeles Lakers finalized roster changes as the team prepares for the upcoming training camp.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Basketball
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The Los Angeles Lakers signed guards Meechie Johnson Jr. and Chase Ross to Exhibit 10 contracts. In a corresponding move, the franchise waived forward Anton Watson.
Why it matters
These transactions are part of the team's ongoing preparation for the 2026 training camp and preseason schedule. Exhibit 10 deals provide the club flexibility by allowing players to join their G League affiliate if they do not secure a final roster spot.
Meechie Johnson Jr. stands 6-foot-2, while Chase Ross measures 6-foot-4 and 195 pounds. Ross recorded 2.3 steals per game last season, alongside individual scoring outputs for both new signees.
The players
Los Angeles Lakers
This is a professional basketball team that competes in the NBA and is based in Los Angeles.
Meechie Johnson Jr.
He is a guard who previously competed at Ohio State University and the University of South Carolina.
Chase Ross
He is a guard who played four seasons of college basketball at Marquette University.
Anton Watson
He is a forward who was recently waived by the Los Angeles Lakers.
Sacramento Kings
This is a professional NBA team based in California that is scheduled to host the Lakers.
The details
The Lakers are adjusting their personnel roster ahead of the start of camp. The newly signed players bring collegiate experience from programs including Ohio State, the University of South Carolina, and Marquette University.
Timeline
September 18, 2026: The team finalized the signings of Johnson and Ross and waived Watson.
September 28, 2026: Training camp and Media Day officially begin.
October 5, 2026: The Lakers play their first preseason game against the Sacramento Kings.
Season Trajectory
These roster moves fit into the broader NBA cycle of utilizing non-guaranteed contracts to build depth during training camp. The signings allow the team to evaluate talent before finalizing the roster for the upcoming season's playoff hunt.
The signing of two guards to Exhibit 10 contracts suggests the organization is prioritizing backcourt depth for the preseason rotation. These players will compete for open roster spots or assignment to the organization's G League affiliate.
The takeaway
The addition of these players highlights the ongoing process of building roster depth through low-risk contracts. Fans can monitor the upcoming preseason games to see which training camp invitees earn a permanent spot with the team.
What happens next
The Lakers will begin training camp on September 28, 2026, followed by their preseason opener against the Sacramento Kings on October 5, 2026.
Further reading
For more updates on the team, visit the Los Angeles Basketball section.
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