The Los Angeles Lakers have contacted the New Orleans Pelicans to gauge the availability of 22-year-old center Yves Missi, according to Ian Begley of SNY.
Begley reported that “multiple teams, including the Lakers,” have expressed interest in Missi, but New Orleans has so far turned away those inquiries. Missi averaged 26.8 minutes, 9.1 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.3 blocks as a rookie, then saw his role shrink in his second season to 19.7 minutes, 5.7 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game.
Los Angeles is searching for a long-term starter at center to pair with Luka Dončić after rotating Deandre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes last year. Dončić has reportedly told team officials he prefers an elite rim-protecting big man who can screen and finish lobs.
The Lakers have also been linked to 7-footer Kel’el Ware, now with the Milwaukee Bucks following his move from the Miami Heat in the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade. It is unclear whether Milwaukee plans to make Ware available.
Free agency offers limited options at the position. Top targets Jalen Duren and Walker Kessler are restricted free agents, while the unrestricted market is considered thin, prompting Los Angeles to explore trades such as a potential deal for Missi. If no agreement materializes, the Lakers could consider re-signing Ayton, Hayes, or both.
Source: LakersNation.com
