After signing a training camp deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, undrafted rookie center Robert Upshaw was expected to compete for the final roster spot with Robert Sacre. However, during preseason, Upshaw was the first of two players to be waived by the Lakers.
With Upshaw officially clearing waivers, Chris Haynes of Cleveland.com reports the undrafted rookie will sign with the team’s D-League affiliate, the Los Angeles D-Fenders:
Center Robert Upshaw cleared waivers and will sign with Lakers' D-League affiliate (LA D-Fenders), league source informs @Clevelanddotcom.
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) October 24, 2015
After struggling with his conditioning during Summer League, Upshaw came into training camp in much better shape. However, in four preseason games, Upshaw averaged 2.5 points and 3.0 rebounds in limited minutes.
While Upshaw has potential, he is still very raw on both ends of the court. Although most thought he would edge out Sacre for a spot on the Lakers, he will have an opportunity to play major minutes for the D-Fenders and develop his game.
