Lakers have clear buyout solution after failed Mark Williams trade
The Los Angeles Lakers were close to trading for Luka Doncic and fulfilling his request for a lob threat, but the trade never happened. The Lakers made a bold move, sending Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a 2030 swap, and their 2031 first-round pick to the Hornets in exchange for Mark Williams.
Fans spent two days imagining the combination of Luka lobbing passes to Williams, only to find out the trade was voided because Williams failed his physical exam with the Lakers. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the exam revealed “multiple issues,” although the exact details remain unknown.
With the trade deadline having passed two days earlier, the Lakers couldn’t trade for another center. Their remaining options are to sign a player from the buyout market (which would require waiving someone) or to see what the two centers on two-way contracts (Christian Koloko and Trey Jemison III) can provide. For now, Jaxson Hayes will continue as the starting center, a role he has excelled in during recent games, particularly in Luka’s debut on Monday.
The most likely option is to target the buyout market. One player who could soon be joining the Lakers is Alex Len. Washington waived him on Saturday, and Charania reported that Len planned to sign with Indiana.
Lakers may sign Alex Len from the buyout market
However, on Monday, Keith Smith suggested that Len could sign with the Lakers instead, as he has not yet officially committed to the Pacers.
Len was traded from the Kings to the Wizards in a three-team deal with the Grizzlies involving Marcus Smart. It may make more sense for Len to remain in California, and the Lakers offer a stronger opportunity than the Pacers (which is why he likely won’t head to Indiana).
Given the Lakers’ limited options, Len appears to be their best bet for additional depth. The 31-year-old center has career averages of 6.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game.
While Len’s performance has declined over the last three seasons in Sacramento, the Lakers could provide him the best chance to revitalize his career. Playing alongside Doncic would make things easier for Len.
ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported on Monday that Reddish and Christian Wood are the most likely players to be waived in order to make room for a buyout signing. Don’t be surprised if one of them is let go, with the Lakers set to add Len to their roster. It seems almost certain at this point.