The Los Angeles Lakers have had an eerily quiet NBA offseason. Apart from their core returning from last season and re-signing LeBron James, the team has made no moves. Instead, the only real additions to the squad came in the form of rookies Dalton Knecht and Bronny James. After a disappointing season, the lack of movement was a serious red flag for fans of the team.
Given the number of players rumored to be of the Lakers’ interest, them striking out on every deal was a shocker. Whether it be free agents like DeMar DeRozan, Klay Thompson, or Jonas Valanciunas, no name came to LA. As a result, there is growing skepticism about the team’s chances and GM Rob Pelinka’s talents. However, according to a report by ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, all might not be over for the purple and gold.
Optimistic update for Los Angeles Lakers fans
Last season, the Lakers had a slow start to their season, attributed to an ever-changing rotation courtesy of Darvin Ham. Once the final starting 5, with Rui Hachimura at the 4 took court, the team went on a significant push into the playoffs. However, a rough showing against a superior opponent and they were out in 5 games in the First Round.
The next round gave Los Angeles the blueprint to succeed, however. It remains inevitable that the Denver Nuggets will stand in the Lakers’ way. However, a twin tower lineup, successful during the 2020 Bubble Playoffs and this year, for the Minnesota Timberwolves, as well, might be the best way to neutralize the Nuggets’ ceiling.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jonas Valanciunas, Los Angeles Lakers, Washington Wizards Updates
As a result, a starting caliber Center alongside Anthony Davis might be the best-case scenario for LeBron James & Co. Unsurprisingly, Valanciunas’ name came up as one of the players James was willing to take a discount for. However, even that deal didn’t come through with JV signing with the Washington Wizards on a 3-year deal.
But, according to Brian Windhorst, not all is lost on that front. During an appearance at The Hoop Collective podcast, “Windy” would reveal some rumblings. “I wouldn’t rule out Jonas Valanciunas eventually ending up on the Lakers this year. That’s all I’m going to say.” As it turns out, new head coach JJ Redick would also be on board for that idea.
During a recent interview at the Summer League in Vegas, Redick made clear that the team was looking for a “big, bruising center” to bolster their frontcourt. In Valanciunas, the team would get a constant double-double threat.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jonas Valanciunas, Los Angeles Lakers, Washington Wizards Updates
While not the most elite of defenders, Jonas brings a big body to throw down low and can make it physical for any opposing Centers. Simultaneously, as a career 9.5 rebounds, JV can solve the rebounding issues for the Lakers.
How would Jonas Valanciunas fit with the Lakers?
At this point, the 17-time NBA Champions are bringing essentially the same squad from last season. In that case, adding Jonas Valanciunas would be as seamless as taking Hachimura’s place in the starting lineup. It wouldn’t have to be a permanent change as well, as Coach Redick could take the call on an opponent-by-opponent basis. The merits of adding the Lithuanian are obvious.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jonas Valanciunas, Los Angeles Lakers, Washington Wizards Updates
A constant double-double threat, Valanciunas gives the team a big body. With 58 career playoff games, his experience would also matter come postseason time. As an added bonus, JV is a decent shooter from distance, averaging over 34% from long range for his career. While last season saw a downtrend (30.8%), Los Angeles will hope for a bounce back season from the 6-foot-11 big man.
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