Lakers sign forward Shawne Williams

The Lakers signed free-agent forward Shawne Williams on Tuesday, according to General Manager Mitch Kupchak.

Williams had the best year of career during the 2010-11 season, while playing for Coach Mike D'Antoni and the New York Knicks.  Through 64 appearances, Williams showed a steady outside shot, hitting 40.1% of three-point attempts.

Originally drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 2006 with the 17th overall pick, Williams has also played for the Dallas Mavericks and New Jersey Nets (now Brooklyn).  The 6-foot-9 veteran can play either forward position.

A foot injury ended Williams' season early in February of 2012 and he hasn't played in a game since, sitting out last season.  The Nets traded him in March of 2012 to the Portland Trail Blazers, who eventually waived him.

The Lakers did not release terms of their agreement with Williams but he'll make $1.1 million for the coming season, if he makes the team.

The franchise has 13 players under contract.  It's unclear how much, if any, of Williams' contract is guaranteed.  The team is expected to bring 16 to 20 players to training camp, starting in late September.

The Lakers have yet to sign their 2013 draft pick, Duke's Ryan Kelly (48th overall), as he works his way back from April foot surgery.

While the team can carry as many as 15 to the regular season, they may trim down to 13 or 14 by opening night when they play host to the Clippers (Oct. 29).

Other free agents linked to the Lakers include Lou Amundson, Marcus Landry, Nick Minnerath, Gary Forbes and Pete Mickeal.

-Eric Pincus