The Lakers took two more steps toward strengthening their lackluster second unit when they signed backup shooting guard Jodie Meeks and re-signed reserve small forward Devin Ebanks on Monday afternoon.

Meeks is expected to serve as Kobe Bryant’s backup and Ebanks will play behind Metta World Peace. Meeks averaged 8.4 points in 66 games, including 50 starts, last season with the Philadelphia 76ers. Ebanks averaged 4.0 points in 24 games, including 12 starts in 2011-12, with the Lakers.

Previously, the Lakers signed forward Antawn Jamison and re-signed forward Jordan Hill. Jamison might end up as a starter if center Dwight Howard’s back isn’t sound enough to allow him to begin the season on time Oct. 30. Howard had season-ending surgery last April and there have been reports he won’t be fit to start the season.