The Lakers still exploring options to add another center
lakers-still-exploring-big-man-options
The Los Angeles Lakers continue to survey the market for frontcourt help even after a busy offseason that brought major changes to their rotation, according to team sources cited by The Athletic.
Vice president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka executed a sign-and-trade for Walker Kessler, positioning the 7-footer as the organization’s long-term starting center. The club also reached an agreement with veteran Kevon Looney, while forward Sandro Mamukelashvili can shift to the middle when needed.
Despite those additions, the front office is keeping tabs on potential upgrades via trade or free agency. The 15-man roster is at capacity following the recent signing of wing Ziaire Williams, which makes a trade the more likely path unless a player is waived.
Free-agent options remain limited. Unrestricted centers Bismack Biyombo, Nick Richards and Christian Koloko headline a thin group still available. Los Angeles is believed to be interested in a big who can stretch the floor, an element missing from the current tandem of Kessler and Looney. Head coach JJ Redick is encouraging Kessler to extend his shooting range, but the roster no longer features last season’s primary floor-spacer Maxi Kleber, nor the small-ball center options LeBron James and Rui Hachimura.
Additional depth could prove important over an 82-game schedule, even if the acquisition is a hybrid forward capable of soaking up minutes at center.
Kaluma in line for two-way deal
The team is also evaluating internal options. Summer League standout Arthur Kaluma, who led the Lakers in scoring during games in Las Vegas after a productive G League season, is under consideration for a two-way contract, sources said.
Source: Lakers Nation
