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Grizzlies Waive Zach Cleveland; Lakers Cut Two Players

The Grizzlies have waived forward Zach Cleveland, the team announced today in a press release (via Twitter). Cleveland had been on a non-guaranteed Exhibit 10 contract.

Published: Saturday, 17 October 2026 at 5:30 PM
Grizzlies Waive Zach Cleveland; Lakers Cut Two Players
Key Things to Know
  • The Grizzlies waived forward Zach Cleveland, while the Lakers placed Rafael Castro and Aniwaniwa Tait-Jones on waivers.
  • Cleveland is expected to join the Memphis Hustle in the G League, earning a potential $91,000 bonus.
  • Castro and Tait-Jones are likely headed to the G League's Coachella Valley Lakers.
The Story in 60 Seconds

The Memphis Grizzlies have waived forward Zach Cleveland, while the Los Angeles Lakers released Rafael Castro and Aniwaniwa Tait-Jones ahead of the regular season roster deadline. Cleveland is anticipated to join the Grizzlies' G League affiliate, the Memphis Hustle, which could earn him a $91,000 bonus if he spends at least 60 days there. Castro and Tait-Jones are also expected to report to the Lakers' G League affiliate, the Coachella Valley Lakers.

Both Memphis and Los Angeles must complete additional roster trims to reach the standard 15-player limit before opening night. Because both franchises carry surplus players on guaranteed contracts, they may delay final moves until Sunday or Monday. The Lakers are actively exploring the trade market to avoid waiving guaranteed money, reportedly engaging the Bulls, Jazz, and Bucks regarding 2024 first-round pick Dalton Knecht.

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