Heartbreaking Lakers Number 11 Jaxson Hayes just confirm dead today so sad….
Lakers Eyeing to Pair LeBron James With $30 Million Center
Valanciunas of the Washington Wizards is a name to watch as a trade target for the Los Angeles Lakers, ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported on September 12. Valanciunas was on LeBron James’ shortlist of players he was willing to take paycut for during the NBA free agency to open their $12.9 million full midlevel exception, ESPN also reported in July.
However, Valanciunas opted to sign for more guaranteed money with the Wizards via sign-and-trade with his former team New Orleans Pelicans for three years, $30 million. Valanciunas’ trade restriction will be lifted on December 15. The 6-11, 265-lb Valanciunas averaged 12.2 points, 8.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists for the Pelicans last season.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) shoots against New Orleans Pelicans center Jonas Valanciunas (17). © Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) shoots against New Orleans Pelicans center Jonas Valanciunas (17). © Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports © Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports Lakers rookie head coach JJ Redick said in an interview with Sirius XM NBA Radio during the NBA Summer League in July that they tried and would love to add a “bruising” big man, without directly mentioning Valanciunas’ name. “You look at the Western Conference right now, whether it’s Denver, Minnesota, OKC with what they added, certainly Memphis, they’re going to be back in the hunt, they added Zach Edey. Certain matchups in the playoffs, you’re going to need a lot of size.” McMenamin added in the ESPN report Davis made it clear to the Lakers he’s preference is to play more often with another big man. Currently, the Lakers’ center rotation is shallow with Christian Wood out for at least eight weeks after a knee surgery. They only have Jaxson Hayes and the untested Colin Castleton, who is on a two-way contract, as their other healthy centers on their roster. Related: NBA Fans Can’t Believe Former Laker Joined the Celtics Copyright 2024 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved This story was originally published September 12, 2024, 6:59 PM. Take Us With You Real-time updates and all local stories you want right in the palm of your hand. Icon for mobile apps Miami Herald App View
