The Los Angeles Lakers' recent forays to improve their roster hit a significant roadblock this past weekend. Initially buoyed by the prospect of adding center Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets, the Lakers were swiftly dealt disappointment when the trade was rescinded due to failed physical exams for Williams. This abrupt turn of events left the Lakers scrambling to address their center depth as they aimed to capitalize on their championship window this season.
Just days ago, the Lakers had confidently packaged rookie Dalton Knecht, veteran Cam Reddish, and several future draft picks to secure Williams—a move they believed would bolster their frontcourt significantly. Yet, it became evident they had underestimated the potential health issues tied to Williams. According to ESPN's Dave McMenamin, team sources revealed, "The Lakers can still waive someone — Wood or Reddish would be the top candidates — to create a roster vacancy to bring in another center.”
Now left with limited options, the team's center rotation boasts Jaxson Hayes—who has recently taken up the starting role—alongside two-way players Christian Koloko and Trey Jemison III. With Christian Wood out due to knee surgery and Reddish now back with the Lakers, the team's center situation is precarious. Hayes has shown promise with averages of about 8.0 points per game and 6.6 rebounds during the Lakers' recent winning streak, but it remains to be seen if he can sustain such performances through the playoffs.
General Manager Rob Pelinka acknowledged the difficulties, noting, "The market for bigs right now ... is very dry. There’s just not a lot available." The comments echo the sentiments shared throughout the organization as they seek to replace Williams. An urgent task lies before them: can they find someone to step up and fortify the center position?
With the trade deadline now passed, the Lakers are turning their attention toward the buyout market for potential additions. Names like Alex Len have emerged as candidates, as he was recently waived by the Washington Wizards. There’s reported mutual interest between Len and the Lakers, making him one of the more attractive options. Standing 7 feet tall and averaging around 5.3 rebounds per game over his career, he brings significant size, albeit not the rim protection the team desperately needs.
Other potential buyout candidates to keep on the Lakers' radar include Mo Bamba and Daniel Theis. Bamba, known for his shooting capabilities and rim protection, is certainly on the Lakers' watchlist. After minimal playing time with the L.A. Clippers, he could provide depth and shooting to the Lakers' frontcourt. Theis, meanwhile, offers the physicality and rebounding presence the Lakers covet, making both players prime candidates to help the team solidify their center rotation.
Unfortunately, adding new talent isn’t the only concern for the Lakers; the team currently faces roster limitations. With the addition of Knecht and Reddish back to the fold, Los Angeles has reached the 15-man roster cap. Therefore, waiving either Wood or Reddish becomes necessary to free up space for any new signee. Would the Lakers choose to move on from Reddish, who just came back after being part of the Williams trade, or would they instead waive Wood and risk losing his potential if he eventually recovers from injury?
These decisions weigh heavily on the franchise, especially as they seek to keep their championship aspirations alive. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, as Pelinka himself stated, "We will find another center path. The path is always there. We just got to put in the work to find it.” With the Lakers' stars—LeBron James and the recently acquired Luka Doncic—looking to make waves through the postseason, the right support at center could significantly influence their playoff success.
Moving forward, the Lakers are left with more questions than answers about their center position. If they are unable to find a reliable big man soon, they may have to modify their style of play, relying more on small ball lineups or managing the minutes of their existing centers. Regardless of what transpires, it’s clear this organization is under pressure to deliver as the playoffs approach.