Lakers Could Pursue $19.9 Million Center as AD Pushes for ‘Another Big’
The Los Angeles Lakers have been connected to several big men ahead of the February 6 trade deadline. Redick’s squad is lacking depth at the center position, with both Jaxson Hayes and Christian Wood falling short of proving themselves as reliable bench options.
As a result, the Lakers might look to add some much-needed center depth. According to Jovan Buha of The Athletic, a possible trade target could become available. Myles Turner of the Indiana Pacers is an unrestricted free agent in the summer. The Pacers may be hesitant to meet his rumored $30 million contract demands.
“It’s mainly a contract situation, as he’s about to be an unrestricted free agent and will likely ask for $30 million-plus, and I’ve heard Indiana is unsure if they’re willing to commit to that,” Buha explained on his ‘Buha’s Block Podcast.’ “If they don’t, trading him to secure something in return makes sense from an asset management standpoint.”
Turner could be a strong addition for the Lakers given their need for another center. He could play alongside Anthony Davis while maintaining floor spacing, as Turner is shooting 39.3% from beyond the arc this season. As a rim protector and three-point threat, Turner would complement the Lakers’ needs. With Indiana uncertain about re-signing him, negotiations could be easier for both teams.
Lakers’ Anthony Davis Calls for Another Big Man
On January 24, Davis expressed to ESPN’s Shams Charania that the Lakers needed to add another big man.
“I think we need another big,” Davis said. “I feel like I’ve always been at my best when I’ve been the 4, having a big out there. We know it worked when we won a championship with JaVale [McGee] and Dwight [Howard] at the 5 and I’m at the 4.”
The Lakers’ 2020 championship win saw Davis alongside Dwight Howard, and playing Davis at the four allows him to showcase his defensive versatility. It also boosts his aggressiveness on both ends of the floor. Turner could fit well in coach Redick’s system while forming an effective partnership with Davis.
Lakers Unlikely to Pursue Veteran Big Men
Recently, the Lakers have been linked to veteran centers Jakob Poeltl and Nikola Vucevic, both reportedly available on the trade market. However, Marc Stein notes that the Lakers are unlikely to target either player.
“League sources indicated over the weekend that the Lakers are not expected to pursue Vučević or Toronto’s Jakob Poeltl,” Stein reported. “Adding Vučević would be costly, as Chicago would likely demand a first-round pick, and absorbing his $21.5 million salary for 2025-26 would strain the Lakers financially, especially with Davis and LeBron James taking up most of next season’s salary cap.”
Stein added, “Poeltl’s situation is similar, with his $19.5 million salary for 2025-26 and 2026-27 (with a player option).”
Turner, earning $19.9 million this season, could present a similar cap hit for the Lakers. However, his potential as a long-term fit next to Davis and his compatibility with the roster could be enough to motivate the Lakers’ front.
