NBA – In search of a center, two files already settled at the Lakers? “That makes sense”

Par Pierre-Andréa Fraile | Journaliste sportif

Barring an unlikely turn of events, the Lakers are likely to make several moves on the market this summer. In particular, to strengthen the center position, where two players are rumoured to be lined up for Los Angeles next year.

If they have learned anything from their short playoff campaign, it’s this. The Lakers need to strengthen at the center position if they are to have a reasonable shot at the title next season. It has to be said that the departure of Anthony Davis has not been made up for, given that the transfer of Mark Williams completed on the bangs of the trade deadline was ultimately unsuccessful.

Following this setback, Jaxson Hayes did his best to seize the opportunity offered to him et the five. However, his limitations quickly became apparent, to the extent that JJ Redick made very little use of him during the postseason. It’s therefore a safe bet that he won’t be retained at all costs this summer following the opening of free agency… unlike two other Angelinos big men.

Two centers already guaranteed to play for the Lakers next year?

Apart from Hayes, another center played a few minutes in the series against the Timberwolves, namely Alex Len. The Ukrainian is expected to leave the Lakers in the coming weeks. On the other hand, according to The Athletic’s insider Jovan Buha, two other inside players excluded from the playoff rotation could continue their career in Los Angeles. Starting with Trey Jemison:

Jovan Buha: Jemison is actually still under contract as a two-way player, and I think the Lakers will keep him there. It makes sense. They signed him last January on a two-year, two-way contract, so if I were them, he’s a player I’d keep on the roster next season, just to see if he continues to develop.

The same is true of Christian Koloko, whose two-way contract has come to an end and who could therefore test the free agent market. In any case, Buha invites the Purple & Gold to give him another chance:

Jovan Buha: I think it would be a mistake to let Koloko go without at least trying to keep him. He makes sense as the 14th or 15th player in a rotation and as a third pivot. And Jemison fits in perfectly as a two-way player. So I think they should both stay.

That said, it seems clear that none of Jemison or Koloko will start the 2025-26 season as a starter. Rob Pelinka will still have to scramble to find the right profile for the job.