Break Through: Lakers Just Land Another Star. In A Realistic Mock Trade Scenario
The Los Angeles Lakers are looking for upgrades to their roster after last season’s first-round exit, but have failed to recruit the likes of Klay Thompson and Buddy Hield before not even attempting to sign DeMar DeRozan. With the news of LeBron James’ contract extension, the Lakers aren’t anticipating major moves as it would make them an apron team.
But if the Lakers want to maximize the era with LeBron and Anthony Davis on their squad, they have to make some sort of a move. The franchise is interested in acquiring Magic center Wendell Carter Jr., something they can do without it costing them an arm and a leg.
Trade Details:
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Wendell Carter Jr.
Orlando Magic Receive: Rui Hachimura, 2025 Second-Round Pick (LAL), 2025 Second-Round Pick (LAC), 2027 Second-Round Pick (LAL)
This trade allows the Magic to acquire a versatile wing who can further their quest to win now while getting off a center they’ve been floating in trade packages recently. The Lakers finally acquire a center who can fit alongside Anthony Davis on the frontcourt.
The Lakers Bring Back The Twin Towers
The term ‘Twin Towers’ has been overused in the NBA, whether it was when Hakeem Olajuwon and Ralph Sampson were teammates or when it was Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins, or now when we have Rudy Gobert and Karl-Anthony Towns in Minnesota.
The 2020 Lakers also used a double-center strategy to win the title, playing JaVale McGee or Dwight Howard alongside Anthony Davis to maximize the team’s defensive impact. After the 2020-21 season ended in disappointing fashion, the Lakers moved on from the concept and haven’t used it since.
Wendell Carter Jr. averaged 11.0 points and 6.9 rebounds last season for the Magic. He failed to fit into the defensive ethos of the franchise, fighting for a rotational spot until the end of the season when it became clear the Magic don’t really have a better big man than WCJ. His shooting ability and size allow him to complement the Lakers offensively, with his big frame at center allowing Davis to return to being a free-roam defender.