EL SEGUNDO – The Los Angeles Lakers announced today that they have waived forward/center Yi Jianlian, per the request of Yi and his agent.
"Yi was productive in practices and games with us, and was a consummate professional both on and off the court," said General Manager Mitch Kupchak. "However, he felt that the minutes and opportunities he'd be afforded here were not in line with his goals and ambitions, and that he'd be better off in a different situation. We appreciate his efforts and wish him great success as he goes forward with his career."
Yi, the 6th overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks, averaged 3.0 points and 2.5 rebounds in 10.7 minutes per game over six contests with the Lakers this preseason.
The Lakers roster stands at 16.