Things are heating up on the Lakers trade market, a notable development amid their chases in free agency.
Lakers Discussing Trades for Three Young Centers
McMenamin: Lakers Have Several Trade Avenues
During appearances on ESPN Los Angeles radio and “NBA Today,” Lakers writer Dave McMenamin confirmed the Lakers are discussing numerous trade scenarios.
“I know one of the scenarios involves another team also dealing with the team that has the center,” McMenamin told ESPN Los Angeles. “And the Lakers feel like when and if that trade goes through, there will be a surplus center on the roster, and the Lakers would be able to negotiate for that.”
He added that the team’s strategy shifted once Brook Lopez joined the Clippers.
“The Lakers had very keen interest in Brook Lopez,” he told “NBA Today.” “Once he came off the board, … I’m told the thesis is youth and athleticism. … Switchable, young defenders, multiple bodies coming at you in waves, and they are trying to achieve a center that can play that way.”
Siegel: Lakers Talking with Conference Rivals
ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel added to the intrigue hours later. In a post on X, he noted the Lakers have “held talks” with Phoenix for Nick Richards, New Orleans for Yves Missi and Portland for Robert Williams III.
Nick Richards
The Lakers’ interest in Richards dates back to last offseason, and it makes sense why they’ve kept him in mind one year later. The 27-year-old, known for his rebounding and interior toughness, did well as Phoenix’s starter following a January trade. In 36 games (34 starts), he averaged 9.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, 0.9 assists and 0.8 blocks. He also shot 59% from the field and 74% from the free-throw line.
Richards checks the boxes in terms of athleticism, youth and defense. The fact that he’s making $5 million next season should make a potential trade easier than others.
Yves Missi
Unlike Richards and Williams III, Missi is a relatively new target. However, he’s another decent option on a team-friendly deal. The 21st pick in last year’s draft was a key constant amid a disastrous season for the Pelicans. In 73 games (67 starts), he put up 9.1 points (54.7% FG), 8.2 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game.
An agile and versatile big at 6’11” and 235 pounds, Missi boasts tremendous athleticism and a strong frame. He can not only soar for highlight slams, but also exhibits solid post moves and chases second-chance opportunities (3.5 OREB/game). The fact that he’s done this at 21 years old (after starting to play basketball at 14) is all the more impressive. While acquiring former Pelicans led to hits and misses for the Lakers, Missi could further his growth with the purple and gold.
Robert Williams III
Finally, Williams III, though a longtime Lakers trade target, still deserves some consideration. An athletic, defensive-minded and undersized big man, the “Time Lord” has shown flashes of potential in Portland. Despite playing only 20 games (3 starts) due to injury, he put up 5.8 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.7 blocks on 64% shooting from the field and 88% from the line.
Earning $13.2 million on an expiring four-year contract, Williams would be a decent fit if not for lingering injuries and subpar production. He’s shown plenty of heart over height at 6’9” and 237 pounds, and has impressive athleticism like Missi and Richards. However, the lack of reliability is a significant red flag, especially for a team that’s been pummeled by the injury bug over the last few years.
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