The Los Angeles Lakers are currently facing an important decision as one of their centers is waiting for the NBA’s medical approval. Their new center, who had a serious blood clot scare that almost ended his career, is now itching to make a comeback. He’s been grinding hard to get back in shape and is hoping to get the green light to rejoin the team.
Lakers center Christian Koloko missed the entire 2023-24 season due to a health issue. Although his personal doctors cleared him, he still requires official approval from the NBA’s fitness panel.
Koloko told TMZ, “I feel amazing. My doctors gave me the green light, but now we’re just waiting on the NBA. We’re pretty optimistic. Hopefully, everything goes well. I’m just gonna come in ready. Be ready to do whatever it takes to have the team win and that’s the goal — win!”
Approval is crucial for him to join training camp and the new season. The Lakers are hopeful after their medical checks, but he needs clearance soon to avoid missing practice. If cleared, Koloko could be a strong option at center for the Lakers alongside or instead of Anthony Davis.
Standing at 7’1″ with a 7’5″ wingspan, he brings much-needed shooting and rim protection. His return is vital now, especially with Christian Wood out for at least eight weeks after knee surgery. This leaves Jaxson Hayes and Colin Castleton as the only healthy centers.
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Lakers Center Koloko’s Role In Their Plans
Anthony Davis has made it clear he wants to play more with other big players instead of being the only center. Christian Koloko could add depth and competition for backup center roles with Hayes and Wood.
The Lakers have been trying to strengthen their frontcourt by finding good centers to support Davis. Koloko’s two-way contract shows the team’s plan to improve their frontcourt without losing future options.
With Hayes as the only Lakers center available right now, signing Koloko on a two-way deal was a smart choice. This lets the Lakers wait before making a full-time decision about him while trying out different lineups with Davis, Hayes, and Wood.
The Lakers have been actively looking for more big men, especially after missing out on players like Jonas Valanciunas. As ESPN’s JJ Redick pointed out, “You certainly have to look at what I think is actually a very good roster, a very balanced roster. We’d love to, we tried, but we’d love to, at some point, get another five-man, a big bruising five-man.”
Suppose Koloko, the Lakers center, does not get medical clearance. In that case, the Lakers may need to explore other options to improve their frontcourt, especially with their limited salary cap and roster space.
Christian Koloko might not be a superstar, but he could be a solid option, competing with Hayes and Wood for backup center roles. The Lakers need to make the most of their current roster, and Koloko could be an important part of the team if he gets the chance.
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