Before the season started, the Los Angeles Lakers made it clear that they wanted to add another center to their roster. They were looking for a big, physical player who could help take some pressure off Anthony Davis.
While Davis is still playing center most of the time, the team wants to respect his wish not to play that position all the time. He has shared the court with Jaxson Hayes, but Hayes has been dealing with an ankle issue. Christian Wood hasn’t played yet this season as he is recovering from knee surgery that he had in the offseason.
The Lakers still need a big player who can provide solid minutes, be strong on both ends of the court, and help with rebounding. There are some players available for trade, and the Lakers should seriously consider exploring these options.
Jonas Valanciunas, Washington Wizards
One player the Lakers have been linked to is Jonas Valanciunas. The Lakers tried to sign him in free agency this offseason, but he chose a three-year deal with the Washington Wizards instead. However, he has still been linked with the Lakers since then.
Valanciunas isn’t the best defender, but he is strong on offense and a great rebounder. He could be used in various roles, whether starting, coming off the bench, or playing alongside Davis. Valanciunas wouldn’t be too expensive either.
A trade involving Gabe Vincent and a couple of future second-round picks could be enough unless the Wizards ask for more.
Day’Ron Sharpe, Brooklyn Nets
Another player the Lakers have shown interest in is Day’Ron Sharpe. He has just returned from a hamstring injury and has only had limited chances to play so far in his career. Sharpe has the size the Lakers want and has the potential to be effective on both ends of the court. He’s on an expiring contract and will be a restricted free agent next offseason.
The Lakers could trade Jalen Hood-Schifino or combine Cam Reddish and Maxwell Lewis to match Sharpe’s salary. Adding a second-round pick to the trade would make sense for both teams.
Robert Williams III, Portland Trail Blazers
Robert Williams III may not have the size the Lakers prefer, but his exceptional shot-blocking skills make up for that. Offensively, he is mainly a finisher, but Davis has worked well with players like that. Williams also brings a lot of energy to the court.
Williams’ biggest concern is injuries. He only played six games last season before being injured and just returned to play for Portland a month ago. The Trail Blazers have other centers, so they might look to trade Williams, especially since he only has one more year left on his contract.
The Lakers could offer Vincent or Jarred Vanderbilt along with Maxwell Lewis to make the deal work, and a couple of second-round picks might be enough to get him, depending on his performance.
Nikola Vucevic, Chicago Bulls
Nikola Vucevic has been rumored to be on the trade block for years, but he’s having one of his best seasons now. He fits the physical profile the Lakers need and is likely the best offensive option for them next to Davis, thanks to his ability to score in the paint and shoot from outside (he’s hitting a career-high 47.4% of his three-point attempts this season).
Vucevic’s defense is a concern, but Davis could help cover for him in that area. With only one more year on his contract, Vucevic wouldn’t be a long-term investment. However, he would probably cost the most to acquire, especially considering how well he’s been playing.
A trade involving Rui Hachimura and Jalen Hood-Schifino could work salary-wise, but the Lakers may need to offer more than just one first-round pick to get the Bulls to part with him, especially if other teams are interested.
Nick Richards, Charlotte Hornets
Nick Richards has been under the radar because he plays for the Charlotte Hornets, but he has been one of the more reliable big men in the league. He has great size and is currently averaging a double-double with nearly two blocks per game this season.
Richards recently returned from injury and has continued to play well. He has one more year left on his contract at just $5 million, so he is an affordable option. A trade with Christian Wood and Maxwell Lewis would work salary-wise, and adding a couple of second-round picks should be enough to make the deal happen.
