Lakers Target Veteran Big Men for Backup Center Role

The Los Angeles Lakers have been active this offseason, focusing on strategic roster moves. They secured Austin Reaves with a four-year, maximum contract and engaged in significant trades involving their center position.

Recently, ESPN’s NBA insider Shams Charania reported that the Lakers exchanged multiple future draft picks for Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler. The team plans to offer Kessler a substantial four-year, $130 million contract as their starting center.

On Friday, reports surfaced about the Lakers trading Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards. In return, they gained guard Jaden Hardy and additional draft picks. This trade has led to speculation about who will serve as Kessler’s backup center.

The Lakers are evaluating several undrafted rookies, including William Kyle III from Syracuse and Robbie Avila from Saint Louis, to join the rotation. However, adding veteran experience is seen as crucial.

According to Charania, the Lakers are considering veterans such as Andre Drummond, Kevon Looney, and Jonas Valanciunas for the backup role. Each of these players brings valuable experience and solid stats as reserve big men.

Jonas Valanciunas, at 34, is a seasoned player who recently completed his 14th season with the Denver Nuggets. Last season, he averaged 8.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, with an impressive 58.2% field goal percentage.

Andre Drummond, also in his 14th NBA season, played as a backup for Joel Embiid with the Philadelphia 76ers. The 32-year-old posted stats of 6.4 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game, holding a 47.2% field goal rate.

Kezon Looney, the youngest at 30, contributed to the New Orleans Pelicans with 2.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, with a 41.7% shooting percentage last season. Looney’s 10-season tenure with the Golden State Warriors, where he won three NBA championships, adds significant value.

The Lakers may seek Looney’s championship experience as they aim to compete with teams like the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference. Adding any of these experienced big men as Kessler’s backup could improve the team’s depth, addressing previous issues with this roster position.