NBA Rumors: Lithuanian center atop LA Lakers' search for big man
The LA Lakers are still looking for a big man to improve their roster but it seems like they might need to explore the trade market. The Lakers missed on a handful of centers on the free agent market, including Jonas Valanciunas, who is now rumored to be a trade target next season.
According to ESPN's Brian Windhorst, the Lakers are going to try and get a big man one way or another after JJ Redick expressed his desire to add a "bruising" center. Windhorst won't be surprised if Valanciunas ends up in Hollywood next season.
"I wouldn't rule out Jonas Valanciunas eventually ending up on the Lakers this year. That's all I'm going to say," Windhorst said on 'The Hoop Collective' podcast. [H/T Basketball on X]
Jonas Valanciunas was one of the most sought-after centers in free agency since he brought a lot to the table. Valanciunas is a serviceable big man, who can be a starter or even come off the bench. He's one of the best rebounders in the NBA, while also being capable of scoring in the post.
So naturally, the LA Lakers were linked to Valanciunas but Rob Pelinka failed to sign him to a contract. The Lithuanian center went with the Washington Wizards' offer of a three-year, $30 million deal. It was a surprising move considering the Wizards are rebuilding.
It's a bargain contract and if he plays well in Washington, the Wizards could flip him for future assets. He averaged 12.2 points, 8.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game last season with the New Orleans Pelicans.
However, Valanciunas was limited to just 23.5 minutes per game due to the Pelicans' offense preferring a smaller lineup at times. He's still an efficient player despite limited playing time, which is an attractive part of his game.
What did JJ Redick say about the LA Lakers' need for a big man?
The LA Lakers have not made any improvements on their roster this offseason after striking out will some of the biggest names in free agency. JJ Redick, who was named as the new head coach, is still trying to make adjustments to the roster.
One of Redick's targets before the start of training camp is to add another big man. He was a guest on SiriusXM NBA Radio last week and pointed out the need for a center since the Western Conference is filled with them.
"We'd love to, at some point, get another five-man, a big bruising five-man. You look at the Western Conference right now, whether it's Denver, Minnesota, OKC, with what they added. Certainly Memphis, they're going to be back in the hunt, they added Zach Edey, certain matchups in the playoffs, you're going to need a lot of size," Redick said. [H/T Yahoo! Sports]