The Los Angeles Lakers have been active this offseason. Their focus hasn’t been solely on keeping LeBron James; rather, significant roster changes are underway.
Key Contract and Trade Moves
The Lakers signed Austin Reaves to a four-year max contract. In a major trade, they acquired Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler, exchanging multiple future draft picks. Sources say Kessler will receive a substantial four-year, $130 million contract, positioning him as the starting center.
Deandre Ayton, their previous starting center, has been traded to the Washington Wizards. In return, the Lakers gained guard Jaden Hardy and draft picks. This shift prompts speculation on who will back up Kessler.
Potential Candidates for Backup Center
While undrafted rookies like Syracuse’s William Kyle III and Saint Louis’s Robbie Avila might join the rotation, experience takes precedence for the team. Discussions around veteran options include Andre Drummond, Kevon Looney, and Jonas Valanciunas.
Jonas Valanciunas, 34, recently finished his 14th NBA season with the Denver Nuggets. He averaged 8.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game on 58.2% shooting.
Andre Drummond, also in his 14th season, last played for the Philadelphia 76ers. He averaged 6.4 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game with a 47.2% field goal percentage.
Kavon Looney, at 30, averaged 2.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game on 41.7% shooting for the New Orleans Pelicans. His decade-long stint with the Golden State Warriors included three championship wins.
Building a Competitive Edge
The Lakers hope Looney’s championship experience contributes positively. As they seek depth behind Kessler, the addition of any of these veterans could address a critical need on their roster.
Stay tuned for more updates on the NBA’s latest developments.
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