The Lakers have had a decent start this season, but their frontcourt is being held together with duct tape and prayers. Injuries have piled up, leaving Anthony Davis as the lone soldier at the center. And while AD is playing out of his mind, it’s obvious he can’t do this alone for an entire season. That’s why rumors are flying about the Lakers potentially targeting Jonas Valanciunas, the big man currently suiting up for the Wizards.
Lakers’ Jaxson Hayes is out for weeks, Christian Wood and Jarred Vanderbilt haven’t touched the floor yet, and Christian Koloko has barely played. That means Davis is logging heavy minutes at center—a role he’s never loved. He’s been brilliant, but the team desperately needs another big body to give him some relief. Enter Valanciunas, a veteran who can handle tough matchups, grab boards, and knock-down shots in the paint.
Valanciunas might not be a superstar, but he’s consistent. He’s averaging 12 points on 58% shooting this season and has the experience to make an impact immediately. Sure, his three-point shot (25%) isn’t great, but the Lakers don’t need him to live on the perimeter. They need his size, toughness, and ability to stretch the floor when necessary.
Why The Los Angeles Lakers Want Jonas Valanciunas?
Rumor has it that the Lakers are considering a trade involving Gabe Vincent and some second-round picks to bring Valanciunas to LA.
“Keep an eye on Los Angeles potentially dangling Vincent and future second-round picks to try and land Wizards center Jonas Valančiūnas, a coveted Lakers target,” HoopsHype reported.
Valanciunas would bring the kind of durability the Lakers have been missing. He has played most of the 82-game schedule throughout his career and can relieve some of the pressure on Davis by allowing him to slide back to his natural forward position. On top of that, Valanciunas is a great locker-room guy who’s been mentoring young players like Wizards rookie Alex Sarr this season.
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If this trade happens, the Lakers would be shoring up a weak spot that could make or break their playoff hopes. It’s not a flashy move, but it’s exactly the kind of under-the-radar deal that could help them contend in a packed Western Conference. Let’s see if the front office pulls the trigger.
