Lakers' Yi Jianlian: Requests release from Lakers

Jianlian asked the Lakers to be released and will be waived Monday, Marc Stein of ESPN reports.

Analysis:

Jianlian reportedly was given a different role than he expected when he initially signed with the Lakers from China, as it's possible that Jianlian was not a fan of the team playing him at backup center behind Timofey Mozgov through training camp. Jianlian's departure will likely result in a return to China for the big man, while Tarik Black and Ivica Zubac could now potentially see bigger roles in the frontcourt this season for the Lakers.