Inconsistency is one of the Lakers’ 2023 themes. This team hasn’t been able to settle into a routine, whether it’s losing games or finding chances for every player on the club.

The center slot is one of the positions that is most affected by the inconsistency. Although Anthony Davis has had a great start to the 2023 season, it is becoming obvious that he cannot control the paint by himself. As AD’s backups, Christian Wood and Jaxson Hayes alternate minutes, attempting to provide consistency while he’s off the court. To improve their rotation, the Lakers clearly need an upgrade there. That might be assisted by two seasoned big me𝚗 from the Eastern Conference.

Los Angeles Lakers: Two Trade Objectives to Provide Center Support

André Drummond

With the Chicago Bulls for eleven years, veteran Andre Drummond—a two-time All-Star and four-time rebounding champion—is still going strong. With a 54% shooting percentage, Drummond has averaged seven points, eight rebounds, 1.2 steals, 0.5 blocks, and 1.2 steals in 34 games. In his most recent games, he excelled. In the previous Tuesday’s game against the Hawks, Drummond had 24 points and 25 rebounds. On Saturday, he played the 76ers and finished with 15 points and 23 rebounds.

Drummond, who did not play for the Lakers during the 2020–21 season, might provide them with much-needed size and physicality in the paint. Compared to his previous starting position next to LeBron James and Anthony Davis, he would revert to a supporting role, but that shouldn’t be a problem this time around. At 6 feet 11 inches and 279 pounds, Drummond would be a vital member of a bench that averages 17.5 points in the paint per game while giving up 16.7. It’s also important to note that the Lakers rank 17th overall (43.8) but second in defensive rebounds per game (35.4).

Both the Lakers and Andre Drummond would gain from a second stay with him. His knowledge of James and Davis is an added plus, and he would be a huge asset to this year’s squad. Given that his $3 million salary is about to expire, he might be an easy target for a larger deal.

Jacob Poeltl

 

Jakob Poeltl, a 28-year-old center for the Raptors, has established himself as a big man capable of starting in the NBA. However, it wouldn’t be if Poeltl was among the next names on Toronto’s trade block in the wake of the Raptors’ significant transaction with the Knicks. In 32 games, Poeltl has averaged 8.2 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.2 blocks, and 10.4 points (on a career-high 70% FG). He has five double-doubles this year and most recently scored a season-high 19 points (9/15 FG) in a Dec. 22 loss to the Sixers.

With his recent rise to prominence, Poeltl might be a valuable asset to the Lakers as Anthony Davis’ backup or starting center. He can put on incredible shows, and he has demonstrated amazing bursts of agility during fast breaks. Poeltl has also performed admirably in the pick-and-roll this season. Using 77% of his field goal attempts, he has scored 1.46 points per possession (3.2 PPG), which puts him in the 90th percentile. He has a career average of 1.2 swats per game, making him a reliable defender who guards the rim. Lastly, Poeltl has three years of minimal postseason experience. During the 2019 postseason, he shot nearly 64% from the field and averaged 7.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.7 assists. He has demonstrated his ability to help the Lakers win basketball, and he would be a fantastic addition.

It would be extremely beneficial for LA to have Poeltl on the floor, especially without AD. With his $19.5 million salary, he would be a more difficult target for them, but if the team wants to strengthen their backup alternatives, they should still be keeping an eye on him.

Final Word

The Lakers’ recent performance has shown a few weaknesses that require attention. They could be just one or two deals away from once again making a significant impact in the Western Conference. The Lakers’ development depends on resolving the center position in order to support James and Davis. Rоb Pelinka should give consideration to Drummond and Poeltl as the 2024 trade deadline draws near.