As the Lakers search high and low for help at the five, one insider confirmed that, in addition to conference rivals, they’ve reached out to a young contender about two of their prominent centers.
Lakers Could Solve Center Problems with One Bold Trade
Siegel: Lakers Inquired About Pair of Orlando Bigs
In a report detailing the Lakers’ many pursuits via trade, ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel said the team approached the Orlando Magic about Wendell Carter Jr., and Goga Bitadze.
“The Orlando Magic are another team the Lakers have contacted regarding Wendell Carter Jr. and Goga Bitadze, sources said. It is unknown at this time what the extent of these conversations was and whether the Magic are actively listening to offers for Carter, a valuable member of their frontcourt.”
The Magic are active this offseason after a first-round loss to the Celtics. With the East seemingly wide open, it’s surprising they’re willing to even broach the subject of trading their respective starting and backup bigs. However, with the Lakers getting nowhere with Walker Kessler and the Deandre Ayton situation up in the air (until after 5 p.m. ET today), this may be a wise contingency plan if their free agency hopes fall short.
Wendell Carter Jr.
A 26-year-old forward/center, Carter Jr., would help LA as a physical and athletic big who spaces the floor and rebounds well. He ended his seventh year in the league averaging 9.1 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 0.6 blocks on .460/.234/.737 splits.
Though his defense is inconsistent, he’s managed to string together solid performances and holds his own in the post. His 23% mark from three was also an outlier, as he came off three consecutive seasons shooting 30% or better from deep (32.7, 35.6, 37.4 from 2021-24, all on high volume).
Carter Jr. has the size and shooting the Lakers lacked following the Anthony Davis trade, and is a unique trade candidate despite some defensive woes.
Goga Bitadze
The 6’11” and 250-pound Bitadze is coming off a career year where he split time between the second unit and starting lineup. In 70 games (42 starts), the 25-year-old averaged 7.2 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.4 blocks on .611/.104/.639 splits. Though not as much of a lob threat as Carter Jr., Bitadze has shown he can score off his teammates and make plays for them as well. He’s also proven to be an effective paint defender, with Silver Screen & Roll’s Alex Regla claiming he has a case as “one of the most underrated rim protectors in the NBA.”
“Since entering the league, Bitadze has finished in the 90th percentile or higher in block percentage in four of the last six seasons. With modest height and wingspan, Bitadze instead picks up his swats thanks to his mobility, timing and solid defensive awareness.”
With the Lakers striking out on backups so far, Bitadze could serve as an ideal fit for their future, as he continues to grow after a productive season.
What Could the Lakers Give Up?
With Carter Jr. making $10.8 million next season and Bitadze $8.3 million, the Lakers could match those salaries with an expiring contract plus filler salary (e.g. Dalton Knecht’s $4 million deal) if needed. They also have a tradable 2031 first-round pick and five future swaps (2026, ‘28, ‘30, ‘31 and ‘32) to include as well.
As of right now, trading for Carter Jr. and/or Bitadze seems like an easier route compared to current negotiations with Utah. The pair would be intriguing options and decent fits if other potential trades or signings fall through.
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