The next cut in the Lakers’ training camp seems to be happening. According to ESPN’s Marc Stein, center Yi Jianlian has “asked to be released” by the team following discussions about his future:
ESPN sources say Yi Jianlian, after talks with the team Sunday, has asked to be released by the Lakers and will be formally waived Monday.
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) October 24, 2016
When the role Yi expected with the Lakers did not materialize after he left China, sources say he and his reps asked the team to let him go
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) October 24, 2016
Jianlian struggled mightily during the preseason, as he could not adjust to the NBA game after coming back from China. However, his inclusion on the main roster was always a possibility due to his cleverly created contract.
That Yi asked to be released may show that he understood the implications of his poor play. If Yi were to remain on the roster, he would surely play few minutes until he were traded to a contender in need of cap space.
Yi’s release opens the door for Thomas Robinson to make the 15-man roster. The latter is still in a battle with Metta World Peace for the spot. However, with reports that MWP could accept a role as an assistant coach, it is suddenly a probability that Robinson, who had a great preseason, will be on the Lakers moving forward.
