NBA rumors: Lakers’ 2 top candidates to be waived if they want to sign a center
The Los Angeles Lakers were left scrambling after their trade for Mark Williams fell apart due to concerns with his physical. This trade was expected to resolve their issues in the paint after moving Anthony Davis, but now they must continue their search for a center.
Since the Williams trade was canceled after the deadline, the Lakers have had no opportunity to pursue another trade for a center. As a result, their only option is to tap into the buyout market, but they must first waive a player from their crowded roster. ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reports that Christian Wood and Cam Reddish are the most likely players to be released.
“The Lakers can still waive someone — Wood or Reddish would be the top candidates, team sources said — to create a roster vacancy to bring in another center,” McMenamin wrote. “L.A. still has enough room under the second apron to sign a buyout player, someone making less than $12.8 million with his previous team, for the rest of the season.”
Reddish was initially part of the Williams trade to match salaries, making him a logical choice to be waived.
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While the buyout market has yet to fully take shape, the Lakers could still find a solid center to sign. Rob Pelinka can only bring in players earning less than $12.8 million, which rules out a player like Jusuf Nurkic.
One name likely to be mentioned is Mo Bamba. Though his current production doesn’t match his popularity, Bamba remains an intriguing option due to his shot-blocking ability and potential for spacing the floor in the Lakers’ frontcourt.
Daniel Theis is another potential target for teams looking to add depth in the frontcourt. He is a seasoned veteran who can contribute as a hard-working center, providing physicality and rebounding.
The Lakers should seriously consider adding one of these two players if they become available. This could help strengthen their frontcourt, which currently relies on Jaxson Hayes and Christian Koloko. If the Lakers can improve their production from this group, they could become a major contender in the Western Conference playoffs.