Lakers acquire two centers, still seeking reinforcement

The Los Angeles Lakers are actively strengthening their roster, having already brought in center Walker Kessler and veteran Kevon Looney. Despite these additions, the team is reportedly still looking to add another center.

Kessler, standing at 218 centimeters, signed a four-year, $130 million contract. The Lakers sent two first-round picks and two pick swaps to the Utah Jazz for the towering center. Looney, a 30-year-old veteran, is expected to provide depth and experience, primarily off the bench. He played only 21 games for the New Orleans Pelicans last season due to injury, while Kessler managed just five appearances for the Jazz because of a shoulder issue.

These moves come as the Lakers navigate roster rules and potential availability concerns. They traded Deandre Ayton to Washington in exchange for two second-round picks and Jaden Hardy, and lost Jaxson Hayes. The team currently has 16 players on its list, but NBA rules limit rosters to 15 players at the start of the season.

Potential free agent targets mentioned include Nick Richards, Bismack Biyombo, Drew Eubanks, and Xavier Tillman. Additionally, reporter Dan Woike of The Athletic noted Jericho Sims as a potential fit due to his style and physical attributes, along with Jalen Smith and Karl Matković, though the latter is a target for the Pelicans.