The Los Angeles Lakers made a surprising roster decision just days before the start of the regular season. One of their promising young guards — fresh off an impressive college career — has found himself without a team. His next move could determine whether he stays in the NBA spotlight or takes a different path.
Lakers Cut RJ Davis Amid Roster Moves Ahead of 2025-26 NBA Season
After a strong final season at UNC, RJ Davis was a solid offseason addition by the Los Angeles Lakers.
The talented guard had averages of 17.2 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.0 steals per contest while shooting 41.3% from the field and 35.4% from the three-point range in 37 games.
However, he has now been waived.
Via the Lakers: “The Los Angeles Lakers have waived RJ Davis, Augustas Marčiulionis, Anton Watson and Nate Williams.”
The Los Angeles Lakers have waived RJ Davis, Augustas Marčiulionis, Anton Watson and Nate Williams.
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) October 18, 2025
Davis has been one of the most talented scorers in the country for several years.
During his junior season with the Tar Heels, he had averages of 21.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.2 steals per contest while shooting 42.8% from the field and 39.8% from the three-point range in 37 games.
Davis will be an intriguing addition to the South Bay Lakers (if he goes to the G League).
With his scoring ability, there is no question that he is a candidate to land a two-way (or 10-day) contract during the 2025-26 season.
Via @Gleaguefan (in September): “Updated South Bay Lakers Potential Depth Chart PG Bronny James (points?)/Augustas Marčiulionis/RJ Davis SG Chris Manon/Tevian Jones/Caleb Jones SF Adou Thiero/Jarron Cumberland PF Eric Dixon/Arthur Kaluma C Christian Koloko/Kylor Kelley Might have #1 pick – 2025 G-League draft”
The Lakers have done an excellent job of developing young players over the last decade.
Recently, Austin Reaves and Alex Caruso are two of the undrafted guards that they were able to help mold into valuable NBA players.
Via @UNCMBBStats: “RJ Davis’ final career totals: 🏀175 games (ACC and UNC records; never missed a game in five seasons) 🏀2,725 points (2nd in UNC history, 3rd in ACC history) 🏀140 games scoring in double figures (ACC and UNC records)”
The Lakers will play their first game of the 2025-26 season on Oct. 21, hosting Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors.
They are going into their first full year with Luka Dončić on the roster.
Last season, the Lakers lost to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the 2025 NBA playoffs (in five games).
