Lakers assign Jordan Clarkson, Xavier Henry to D-Fenders

The Lakers will send rookie guard Jordan Clarkson and veteran swingman Xavier Henry to the NBA Development League, although their stays will be brief.

Clarkson, 46th overall pick in the 2014 NBA draft, and Henry, who is playing his way back into shape after injuries, will join the D-Fenders to play the Texas Legends (Dallas Mavericks’ D-League affiliate) on Saturday night.

Both are expected to rejoin the Lakers when they host the Golden State Warriors on Sunday at Staples Center -- giving the pair a rare chance to play three games in three nights.

In eight appearances with the Lakers, Clarkson is averaging 4.3 points a game while shooting 39.3% from the field.

Henry, who is averaging 1.3 points in seven games this season, is still looking to get back to form after knee, back and wrist injuries.While he’s been active for the Lakers this season, playing with the D-Fenders should give him an opportunity to get back into game shape.

The D-Fenders opened their season Friday night, falling 122-95 to the Santa Cruz Warriors. Manny Harris scored 28 points in defeat. Roscoe Smith, who is an affiliate player of the Lakers after going through preseason with the team, scored 23 points with 18 rebounds.

Former Laker A.C. Green will pair with Eric Rothman for commentary and play-by-play for 24-home games, nine of which will be aired live on Time Warner Cable SportsNet.

“We are excited to be featured on Time Warner Cable SportsNet for a third season,” said Joey Buss, President and CEO of the D-Fenders in a statement. “This is a great opportunity for fans to follow top NBA prospects and Lakers assignment players showcased throughout the season.”

Email Eric Pincus at eric.pincus@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.