By Mike Bresnahan, Los Angeles Times

The Lakers signed free-agent small forward Ira Newble to a contract for the rest of the season.

A defensive-minded player, Newble will be eligible for the playoffs because he was waived by Seattle before Feb. 29. He will make about $175,000.

Newble, 6 feet 7 and 220 pounds, adds a physical presence and is also insurance in case Trevor Ariza can’t fully return from a broken bone in his right foot. Ariza is not expected back until the playoffs begin.

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