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 team.
The center spot 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 could 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 recorded 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, could 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 it 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).
With his recent rise to prominence, Poeltl could 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 athleticism 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 limited playoff 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 that he can help basketball teams win, and would
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