This has been an eventful last week for the Los Angeles Lakers. Last weekend they shocked the basketball world when they somehow landed Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic for Anthony Davis and just one future first-round draft pick. It was a deal that seemed one-sided and in LA’s favor. However, the trade did further weaken a frontline that already needed some help.
However, before last week’s trade deadline, it looked like the club had addressed their need at center when they made a draft for Charlotte Hornets big man Mark Williams. But after getting ahold of his medicals the front office did not like what it saw and scrapped the deal.
Now, the team must try to fill the void with trades no longer an option and severe limitations in the NBA buyout market. With all of that in mind, here are five centers the Los Angeles Lakers might consider soon to add depth to their frontcourt.
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Dwight Howard
While it won’t excite fans, eight-time All-Star Dwight Howard does have a history with the organization after two previous stints in LA. This would purely be a move to add depth. But the 39-year-old would come at a very cheap rate and could still provide solid rebounding and rim protection in limited minutes off the bench.
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Mo Bamba
Seven-year NBA veteran Mo Bamba is another former Lakers player the team could consider on the free agent market. The New York native is still only 26. If he is asked to only rebound, block shots, and finish some lob passes, he is a competent player. Furthermore, after being bought out by the Los Angeles Clippers he is one of the few players they will be allowed to sign due to tax apron limitations.
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JaVale McGee
The favorite to land in LA to fill the center void is journeyman extraordinaire JaVale McGee. The 16-year veteran has played with nine teams, including the Lakers during his career. The 37-year-old is the most obvious option for a team that is looking for a very affordable veteran who can contribute in small doses and be a plus in the locker room.
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DeMarcus Cousins
Four-time All-Star DeMarcus Cousins has badly wanted to return to the NBA over the last few years. He is still only 34 and could be a surprisingly good addition for the stretch run and playoffs. Chances are he will be on his best behavior and play for the league minimum. While it unlikely, Cousins would be an interesting outside-the-box option for the Los Angeles Lakers.
Daniel Theis
If the Lakers want a player who can possibly start and offer competent play at center, former New Orleans Pelicans big man Daniel Theis is probably the best option. The 32-year-old is a solid player still in his prime years. If the team feels he is a good fit for their system, he could be a nice late-season addition.
Los Angeles Lakers Center Hole Prediction
Chances are the Los Angeles Lakers will go will hope Jaxson Hayes can be healthy and more productive as the season goes on. This means they will go with a depth move and Bamba is probably the player they are most likely to target and sign soon.
