Lakers linked in trade rumors to veteran center with seven-foot-six wingspan

The Los Angeles Lakers are scanning the entire trade market for a center, but there’s one name they can’t escape.

32-year-old Lithuanian center Jonas Valančiūnas keeps coming up in reports about the Lakers’ targets, most recently from Athlon Sports’ Nick Wright.

“The most discussed target on the Lakers’ rumor mill continues to be Jonas Valanciunas, who becomes trade-eligible on December 15th,” Wright said.

“The Wizards center is averaging 11.8 points and 7.6 rebounds on a team-friendly $30.3 million deal. Acquiring Valanciunas could provide a powerful interior presence that LA desperately needs in order to ease the pressure on Anthony Davis.”

six-foot-eleven with a seven-foot-six wingspan, Valančiūnas is a monster in the paint and a formidable rebounder who would benefit any team in the NBA right now. He’s also getting paid less than his value, which has the attention of a myriad of buyers.

Valančiūnas is in the first year of a bargain three-year contract with the Washington Wizards. He represents merely a $9.9 million cap hit this season, followed by $10.4 million next season and $10 million in 2026-27.

The Lakers should move fast on a deal for Valančiūnas. Various suitors are sure to come knocking on Washington’s door once the clock strikes midnight on December 15.

The Los Angeles Lakers have been linked to potential trade rumors involving a veteran center known for his impressive physical stature, particularly his seven-foot-six wingspan. This type of player could be an appealing asset for the Lakers, who have been looking to bolster their frontcourt with size and defensive presence. A center with such an extended wingspan can be a significant factor in rim protection and rebounding, key areas the Lakers may want to strengthen to support their championship aspirations.

In recent seasons, the Lakers have faced challenges in terms of defensive consistency and rebounding, especially in high-pressure matchups. A player who brings both length and experience to the lineup could help alleviate some of these issues. The center in question likely has the kind of defensive prowess that could allow the Lakers to maintain a more formidable defensive front, which would be invaluable in playoff scenarios.

This potential trade would not only address immediate needs but also add depth to the team, giving them a more versatile rotation. While details of who the player is or the specifics of any trade talks remain speculative, the idea of adding a veteran with such a unique physical attribute is intriguing, and Lakers fans are likely excited by the possibility of what this player could bring to the team.

Given the current climate of the NBA, where star power and tactical depth are crucial, a trade for a center with a seven-foot-six wingspan could represent a strategic move to push the Lakers further into contender status. If this deal were to go through, it could reshape the Lakers’ lineup and give them a much-needed edge, especially when facing teams with dominant big men or potent interior scorers.