Top 5 NBA free agent centers still available for Lakers amid JJ Redick's rumored quest for big man
The Lakers are heading into a regular season with a new coach in JJ Redick and a rumored search for a reliable backup center in the NBA free agent market. As currently constructed, a serviceable big man coming off the bench would do the team well in terms of managing Anthony Davis's minutes. With a limited selection in the market, the Lakers will have to assess who will be the best fit.
Finding a suitable center to provide quality production alongside a team's second unit involves placing a player in a situation in which he can thrive. Since winning the championship in 2020, the Lakers had several backup centers with varying roles for each one.
During an interview with Sirius XM NBA Radio's Justin Termine and Eddie Johnson on Thursday, Redick highlighted the Lakers' preference to land a center that can fill up their bench unit.
When it comes to the NBA free agent market for the center position, there remains a handful of intriguing selections that the purple and gold could look into.
Top five NBA free agent centers that the Lakers should look into
#5, Olivier Sarr
Olivier Sarr has played three seasons with the OKC Thunder, averaging 2.3 points (56.0% shooting, including 37.2% from 3-point range) and 3.5 rebounds per game. His game revolves around being a floor spacer and rim protector. He has the size to provide serviceable rim protection while capable of hitting perimeter shots.
#4, JaVale McGee
A familiar name on the NBA free agent market for the Lakers is JaVale McGee, who played two seasons with the franchise. He was a staple rotation piece coming off the bench as he brought rim protection and rebounding. He has played for five different teams since then but could still provide decent minutes when called upon.
#3, Chimezie Metu
Chimezie Metu is an intriguing center in the NBA free agent market. He logged his most minutes with the Detroit Pistons at 29.4, which led to his scoring average reaching its highest of his career. Metu played in 14 games for the Pistons, averaging 10.5 points (50.0% shooting) and 6.0 rebounds.
He has good size at the rim for crashing the boards and isn't afraid to step into his jumper when called upon.
#2, Moses Brown
Moses Brown adds another lob threat that the Lakers could explore in the NBA free agent market. He has good size for his position, but his potential has yet to be fully unlocked. However, if placed in the right environment, then he could just be the energizer that the Lakers could utilize.
#1, Bismack Biyombo
Bismack Biyombo could just be what LA is looking for as a backup big man. Biyombo has played 14 seasons in the NBA, gaining a reputation for being a fierce competitor with a high motor.
Aside from his quality rebounding numbers, Biyombo also has the defensive capability that could make up for the minutes when Anthony Davis is resting on the bench.