The Los Angeles Lakers faced a major setback when their trade for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams fell through due to a failed physical. With the 2025 NBA trade deadline already passed, the Lakers must look to the buyout market or free agency to fill the void at center.
While no available player will match Williams’ impact, there are some options who can contribute in the short term. Here are the top centers the Lakers can consider.
5. PJ Tucker (If Waived)
While not a true center, PJ Tucker has played small-ball five in certain matchups and could bring championship experience to the Lakers. He is a career 36.2% three-point shooter and a strong defender capable of guarding multiple positions. Over the past three seasons, he has averaged 4.3 rebounds per game while playing for the Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers, and the Los Angeles Clippers. If the Toronto Raptors waive him, the Lakers could see value in adding his grittiness and veteran leadership for a potential playoff push.
4. Damian Jones
Jones previously played for the Lakers during the 2020-21 season, averaging 5.4 points and 3.3 rebounds in eight games. Currently playing in China for the Zhejiang Golden Bulls, Jones could be an option if he becomes available. He provides solid athleticism, shot-blocking, and rebounding, which could complement the Lakers’ system. If the Lakers pursue him, he would likely serve as a backup behind Jaxon Hayes.
Also Read: Why Did The Los Angeles Lakers Cancel The Mark Williams-Dalton Knecht Trade? Find Out
3. Alex Len
After being waived by the Sacramento Kings, Alex Len is reportedly interested in signing with the Indiana Pacers. However, the Lakers could attempt to convince him to stay in California. Len averaged 3.0 points and 2.8 rebounds per game in nearly four seasons with the Kings. He is a traditional rim-protecting big who can provide size and rebounding in limited minutes. Though not a flashy option, he would serve as a reliable depth piece in case of injuries or foul trouble.
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2. Daniel Theis
The Oklahoma City Thunder recently waived Theis, and he has emerged as a top target for the Lakers. This season, he played 38 games for the New Orleans Pelicans, averaging 4.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. Theis offers valuable experience, having been a part of multiple playoff runs, and his ability to shoot from deep (32.6% career three-point shooter) makes him a decent floor-spacing big. While he lacks elite athleticism, his defensive awareness and rebounding ability would provide stability in the Lakers’ frontcourt rotation.
1. Mo Bamba
A familiar face for the Lakers, Mo Bamba was waived by the Utah Jazz after being traded by the Clippers. The 7-footer has played 28 games this season, averaging 4.6 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game. His ability to stretch the floor with a 37% three-point shooting rate over the last two seasons makes him a solid fit alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Bamba previously had a brief stint with the Lakers in 2023 but struggled to make an impact. However, with Anthony Davis sidelined and a need for size, he could be a serviceable backup or even challenge Hayes for starting minutes.
