After enduring a brutal elimination in round 1 of the playoffs, the LA Lakers will have to take a deep dive into hindsight and figure out where it all went wrong for them. While it goes without saying that the Lakers have been wanting a Center for a long time, and in the end, the absence of someone of that nature proved to be costly for the Lakers. However, the front office will be expected to act upon it and could bring in competent individuals to curb the frailties. Subsequently, the flow of assertions and rumors has begun in the aspect.
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Lakers Can Aim to Bring Bucks' Veteran Center
As per a popular assertion, the Lakers can make the move to sign Milwaukee Bucks' star Brook Lopez. Brook Lopez could be a great fit for the Lakers due to his continued productivity despite turning 37. With his experience and skillset, he offers significant contributions: averaging 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game, while shooting 50.9% from the field and 37.3% from three. His defensive prowess, highlighted by two All-Defensive Team selections, would be a valuable asset for the Lakers, particularly in supporting LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Lopez's familiarity with the Lakers, having played for them in the 2017-18 season, could also aid in his integration.
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What Brook Lopez Can Add to the Lakers' Side
The Lakers should consider signing Brook Lopez due to his elite rim protection, averaging 1.9 blocks per game, and reliable floor-spacing ability as a 37.3% three-point shooter. Lopez brings championship experience, having won the 2021 NBA title with the Bucks, and knows what it takes to succeed at the highest level. Additionally, his next contract will likely be more affordable than his current $48M deal, making a short-term signing a sensible move. Given his familiarity with the Lakers organization and complementary skills to Luka Doncic and LeBron James, Lopez could be a valuable addition to stabilize the center position.
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