The Los Angeles Lakers have started the – NBA season on a strong note with an impressive 10-5 record. The team has exceeded expectations, especially considering that the front office retained much of last year’s roster.
After being eliminated in the first round of the playoffs last season, the Lakers made key adjustments, including hiring new head coach JJ Redick to address lingering issues.
Redick’s impact has been noticeable, but the roster may still need more firepower to compete for another championship. One glaring weakness is in the frontcourt, and the Lakers are reportedly in the market for a center before the trade deadline.
“[Washington Wizards center] Jonas Valančiūnas is definitely a name that you continue to hear bandied about as a Lakers trade target,” one league insider noted. “Jonas Valančiūnas is definitely available for trade in Washington.
We’ve said that here before, and we’ll keep saying it until he’s potentially moved—let’s say before the February trade deadline. Another name scouts have floated is [Portland Trail Blazers center] Robert Williams III, who has returned to health and action in Portland.”
Valančiūnas has been a rumored Lakers target since the offseason, and his name continues to surface in trade discussions. The veteran center is on a very affordable three-year, $30 million contract with the Wizards, which could simplify negotiations between the teams.
This season, Valančiūnas is averaging 12.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 0.8 blocks per game. While his defensive abilities are not his strong suit, his scoring and pairing with Anthony Davis could provide the Lakers with a much-needed boost in the frontcourt.
On the other hand, Williams III offers a different skill set, emphasizing energy, defense, and rebounding. Despite being undersized for a center, he has been an effective defender and could bring a spark off the bench. In six games for the Blazers, Williams III is averaging 10.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game. His defensive presence behind Davis could make him a valuable addition, though his acquisition might require a steeper price.
Both Valančiūnas and Williams III intriguing options for the Lakers as they look to shore up their frontcourt before the postseason. With the team focused on maximizing the remaining years of the LeBron James-Anthony Davis era, adding a reliable center could be the key to elevating their championship aspirations.
