Lakers predicted to sign $83M elite rim runner with major connection to Luka Doncic, JJ Redick

The Los Angeles Lakers have made plenty of moves this summer, and those additions could either turn out to be major successes or complete failures. Los Angeles signed Walker Kessler earlier in the offseason, but the move came at a significant cost.

The only true backup center currently on the roster is Kevon Looney, which creates a concern for the Lakers. Having only one backup option behind Kessler could be considered a significant risk heading into the season.

“This signing was a gamble. Loon was a replacement-level player last season. The Lakers clearly believe he will be better, but they need another option. Going into the season with just two true centers is a problem. If Kessler is forced to miss time, the Lakers have serious issues on defense and at the five," Lake Show Life’s Tyler Watts wrote.

Los Angeles has continued to look for ways to add depth at center, and it appears the team is exploring both the free-agent and trade markets.

“The Lakers are still monitoring the market for big men, team sources told The Athletic," The Athletic's Dan Woike reported. "They traded for Walker Kessler and signed Kevon Looney to play center, and Mamukelashvili can play the position, too. The team could address the position either by trade or signing, like with potentially adding Thybulle. The roster is currently at full capacity."

There are still some intriguing options available to the Lakers, and SI’s Austin Veazey believes Los Angeles could consider signing Dwight Powell.

“Powell was also on the Mavericks when JJ Redick spent the last half of the 2020-21 season with them, and he's now the head coach of the Lakers, which would provide more familiarity. The Lakers also traded for Jaden Hardy this offseason to get off Deandre Ayton's contract, giving them more former Mavs. If Powell is interested in continuing his career, the Lakers could give him that opportunity,” Veazey wrote.

Powell would make plenty of sense because of his existing connections to both Luka Doncic and JJ Redick. Those relationships could make it easier for him to adjust to Los Angeles' system, while his athleticism would also give the Lakers a different element at center. Powell is also an effective rim runner, which could make him an appealing option alongside Doncic. 

Powell has made $83 million throughout his career. With the Lakers still searching for another center, he could be one of the better options remaining on the market.

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