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The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly exploring potential backup center options as the NBA trade deadline approaches on Feb. 6, according to ESPN’s Michael Wright.
The team recently bolstered its roster by acquiring two-way wing Dorian Finney-Smith from the Brooklyn Nets but remains focused on adding depth to their frontcourt.
One of the Lakers’ primary targets is Washington Wizards center Jonas Valančiūnas. While the Lakers have a couple of second-round picks to offer as trade assets, the Wizards’ asking price for Valančiūnas may be too steep for Los Angeles, per Wright.
Valančiūnas would be a strong addition off the bench for the Lakers. The 32-year-old veteran is averaging 11.7 points and 8 rebounds while shooting 55.4 percent from the field.
However, Valančiūnas is not the only center available, as several teams are reportedly shopping potential backup centers, offering the Lakers additional options to consider, per Wright.
Several other NBA experts agree that the Lakers will look to add another small piece to their team, along the lines of the Finney-Smith trade to get a solid backup player.
ESPN’s Bobby Marks also concurred, stating that the Lakers will undoubtedly be looking for another big man to complement their roster as the trade deadline approaches.
“With the emergence of forward Max Christie in the starting lineup, the priority in Los Angeles is acquiring a center who can complement Anthony Davis or back him up,” Marks wrote. “The Lakers rank in the bottom five in points in the paint and second-chance points allowed.”
As the Lakers carry high expectations with 40-year-old LeBron James and Anthony Davis, they have faced struggles in the postseason since their championship in 2020. To support their superstars, the team will need to add a few more pieces to their roster before the deadline.