NBA News: Fan Favorite Relegated To G League-Affiliate South Bay Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers need to trim down their roster as the NBA's regular-season opening draws near.

The latest to be waived is reportedly fan-favorite Mac McClung although a chance to don the signature colors of purple and gold is not entirely shelved.

According to Jovan Buha of The Athletic, McClung signed an Exhibit 10 deal to join the South Bay Lakers in the G League this season.

Hence, there is still a chance that the 22-year-old may be recalled by head coach Frank Vogel if the need arises.

The move could work for the former Texas Tech alum as he tries to improve his craft. He joins a long list of other equally-promising young talents who need to prove they belong on the main roster.

McClung hardly got chances to show his stuff with the Lakers. He saw just 16 minutes in three preseason games, where he managed to score only four points.

Given that the Lakers are stacked, it was understandable. But with injuries starting to pile up for the Lakers, McClung may have a good chance of cracking the roster.

It appears to be a certainty unless the Lakers' management spots a free agent they feel could be a better option over McClung.

The signing of McClung comes not long after Sekou Doumbouya was also signed to the G League team.

It remains to be seen how long McClung and Doumbouya will need to show they deserve to play in the NBA. It would also be best to note that their options are not limited to the Lakers.

As for the Lakers, they need to come up with the final roster before opening the 2021-22 season against the Golden State Warriors on October 19.

Los Angeles is riddled with injuries although they appear to have more than enough signees who can suit up for them in the meantime.