The Los Angeles Lakers face a critical roster decision following the collapse of their trade for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams.
The failed physical examination has left the Lakers with limited options at the center position, currently relying on Jaxson Hayes and a handful of two-way players to fill the void.
The Lakers’ management remains committed to strengthening their roster around the star pairing of LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
Operating under tight financial constraints with just $1.6 million available under the second apron hard cap, the team must consider waiving either Cam Reddish or Christian Wood to create space for a new center acquisition.
“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. 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. ‘We will find another center path,’ a team source said. ‘The path is always there. We just got to put in the work to find it.’ Dave McMenamin of ESPN wrote this week.
The front office maintains optimism about finding a suitable solution before the season’s crucial stretch
Lakers’ Center Position Options After Trade Setback
The Los Angeles Lakers face crucial decisions regarding their center position after the collapsed Mark Williams trade. Jaxson Hayes remains the sole backup to Anthony Davis, creating an urgent need for additional frontcourt depth as the team approaches the playoff push.
Daniel Theis emerges as a practical option for the Lakers’ roster vacancy. The 32-year-old brings playoff experience from his Boston Celtics tenure, though his 6’8″ frame places him as an undersized center. His current season averages of 4.3 points and 4.3 rebounds reflect modest production that could supplement the Lakers’ rotation.
The free agent market presents Mo Bamba as another potential addition. The 7-footer’s impressive wingspan and shot-blocking abilities make him an intriguing candidate. His statistical output of 4.6 points and 4.3 rebounds per game, coupled with a 46.6% field goal percentage, suggests untapped potential despite previous stints with multiple teams including the Lakers in 2023.
Kelly Olynyk stands out as a distinctive option with his floor-spacing capabilities. His 44.2% three-point accuracy creates unique offensive opportunities, while his averages of 7.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists demonstrate versatile playmaking skills.
Roster Considerations:
- Available roster spot after failed Williams trade
- Need for reliable backup behind Anthony Davis
- Importance of playoff experience
- Defensive presence requirements
The Lakers’ choice must balance immediate needs with playoff preparation. Each candidate brings specific strengths that could enhance the team’s frontcourt rotation in different ways.
Theis Strengths:
- Playoff experience
- Solid defensive fundamentals
- System familiarity
- Quick defensive rotations
Bamba Assets:
- Natural shot-blocking ability
- Length and wingspan
- Rim protection potential
- Youth and development upside
Olynyk Advantages:
- Elite three-point shooting
- Advanced passing skills
- Offensive versatility
- Floor spacing
The Western Conference playoff race demands careful consideration of matchups and rotations. The Lakers must evaluate how each potential addition fits alongside Davis and complements the existing roster construction.
Rob Pelinka and the front office face a critical decision that could impact the team’s postseason trajectory. The right addition must enhance the Lakers’ defensive schemes while providing reliable minutes in various game situations.
These roster decisions carry significant weight as the Lakers position themselves for a deep playoff run. The chosen candidate must seamlessly integrate into the team’s established systems and contribute meaningful minutes when called upon.
A graduate from the University of Texas, Anthony Amador has been credentialed to cover the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and high school games all over the Lone Star State. Currently, his primary beats are the NBA, MLB, NFL and UFC.
