Lakers Shake Up Roster,Targeting Veteran Guard and Eyeing Potential Backup Centre
The Los Angeles Lakers are making moves to bolster their roster,reportedly planning to waive DeAndre Jordan to make room for the signing of veteran guard DJ Augustin. This news comes from Shams Charania of The athletic.
Augustin brings a wealth of playoff experience and a reliable three-point shot to the Lakers. Over his 13-year career, the 34-year-old has maintained a respectable three-point percentage of 38.0%. His presence could provide a valuable alternative to Russell Westbrook in crucial late-game situations. This season with the Houston Rockets, Augustin averaged 5.4 points and 2.2 assists while shooting 40.4% from the field, 40.6% from three-point range, and 86.8% from the free throw line before being released on February 10th.
Jordan, who started 19 of his 32 appearances for the Lakers this season, averaged 4.1 points,5.4 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks per game. He shot an impressive 67.4% from the field but struggled from the free throw line, connecting on only 46.2% of his attempts.According to Charania, the lakers are also set to offer a two-way contract to athletic forward Wenyen Gabriel, who has seen action in seven games this season for both the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers.Simultaneously occurring, the Philadelphia 76ers are reportedly interested in acquiring Jordan to address their need for a backup center.As Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reports, the Sixers have been actively seeking a reliable option behind Joel Embiid. They could pursue Jordan through a waiver claim or hope he clears waivers and becomes a free agent, allowing them to sign him directly.
Currently, the Sixers’ center rotation consists of 37-year-old Paul Millsap, Willie Cauley-Stein, and Paul Reed, following the departure of Andre Drummond in the James Harden trade. Adding a veteran presence like Jordan could provide valuable depth and experience to their frontcourt.
Lakers’ Roster Shakeup: A Shot at teh Title or a Recipe for Disaster?
Welcome back, sports fans! Today, we’re diving into the latest NBA news with a very special guest, Coach Stacey augmon, former NBA player and veteran coach.Coach Augmon, thanks for joining us.
Coach Augmon: My pleasure. Always happy to talk hoops.
The Lakers are making headlines with a series of roster moves. They’re reportedly waiving DeAndre Jordan to clear space for veteran guard DJ Augustin. What are your initial thoughts on this move?
Coach augmon: Well, it’s certainly interesting. Augustin brings valuable playoff experience and a reliable three-point shot,something the Lakers could definitely use. He’s a smart player who can run an offense and knock down open threes. Westbrook’s inconsistency has been a concern, so Augustin could be a solid option in crunch time.
But waiving Jordan is a bold move. He’s been a solid contributor, especially on the boards.
Exactly. Jordan provides a much-needed physical presence in the paint.
Let’s be honest, the Lakers’ frontcourt isn’t exactly overflowing with talent. Bringing in veteran forward Wenyen Gabriel on a two-way contract is a good move for development, but can he consistently fill the void left by Jordan?
Coach Augmon: I agree, it’s a gamble. Gabriel has the athleticism, but he needs to develop consistency at this level. it’s a low-risk, high-reward scenario. The Lakers are obviously hoping he can blossom into a reliable role player.
Meanwhile, the Sixers are circling, reportedly interested in signing Jordan.Do you think that’s a good fit for both sides?
Coach Augmon: Absolutely. Philly needs a reliable backup center behind embiid. Jordan brings experience, physicality, and rebounding, something the Sixers lack after trading Drummond. He’s a proven commodity, and I think he could provide valuable minutes in Doc Rivers’ system.
Now, let’s talk about the bigger picture. Do you think these moves ultimately strengthen the Lakers’ championship aspirations?
Coach Augmon: It’s too early to say. Adding Augustin helps their backcourt depth and shooting, but losing Jordan hurts their rebounding and interior defense.It boils down to how these new pieces mesh and if Gabriel can step up. the western Conference is loaded with talent, so the Lakers have a lot of work to do.
What are your thoughts on the Lakers’ moves? Will they improve their chances of winning a title? Let us know in the comments below!
