“Massive Reports” Lakers Reportedly Interested In Trading For Star Big Man

Los Angeles may be looking to make a move for a star big man.

Throughout the offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers were prominently linked with center Jonas Valančiūnas, who eventually signed with the Washington Wizards. This has left the Lakers searching for ways to strengthen their frontcourt depth.

Heading into the offseason, Los Angeles aimed to add support at center to complement star Anthony Davis. However, they have yet to acquire a player for that position and continue to look for options.

Interestingly, the Lakers might have another opportunity to acquire Valančiūnas once he becomes eligible for a trade with Washington. According to Sean Deveney of Heavy.com, there is an expectation that the Wizards will seek to move Valančiūnas before the next season’s trade deadline.

“The Wizards made a smart move by signing him to a three-year, $ 30 million deal at the start of free agency. They are expected to start exploring trade options for him in December when he can be dealt. However, there will be competition for his services.”

The Lakers have been identified as a potential landing spot for Valančiūnas if the Wizards decide to trade him, as he could help strengthen the center position and allow Davis to return to his natural role at power forward.

The New York Knicks and Golden State Warriors are also considered potential suitors for Valančiūnas, meaning the Lakers will face competition.

“The Knicks will be monitoring their center situation closely,” an NBA executive told Heavy Sports last month, noting the Lakers as contenders for Valančiūnas. “The Warriors might also be interested if the (Lauri) Markkanen situation doesn’t pan out.”

Last season, Valančiūnas played for the New Orleans Pelicans, averaging 12.2 points and 8.8 rebounds per game, while hitting 30.8 percent of his three-point attempts, his lowest rate since the 2018-19 season.

Despite this, he has proven to be an effective floor-spacer in the past. If traded to the Lakers, he could provide a significant offensive boost by being a threat from deep alongside Davis.

December will be pivotal for the Lakers as they assess their team’s performance, coinciding with Valančiūnas becoming trade-eligible. The Lakers could potentially leverage point guard D’Angelo Russell’s expiring contract to entice the Wizards. While many factors are at play, there remains a chance for Los Angeles to end up acquiring Valančiūnas if circumstances align favorably.