The 24-year-old will not be paid during the suspension, which is effective immediately. He is eligible to return on 22 November against Chicago.

Samake revealed on Tuesday he had taken a dietary supplement that contained nandrolone, a substance banned by the NBA.

He said he was unaware the supplement contained Nandrolone and that it was not listed on the product he used.

He said: "Nandrolone is commonly found in many products sold in nutritional stores in dietary supplements used.

"It has only recently been banned by the NBA and was unknown to me at the time of using the product.

"The lesson for a young athlete to be learned is that all products they are going to use should be checked with a certified strength coach, trainer or doctor before using them."

The suspension could not come at a worse time for the Lakers. The three-time defending champions have lost three in a row and have won just twice in seven games.

Samake, 24, has made one start this season, in place of superstar Shaquille O'Neal who is sidelined following toe surgery.

Samake, from Mali, has so far averaged 2.7 points and 2.3 rebounds in six games.