EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — The Lakers did not make a big splash before Thursday’s trade deadline, but they still have a way to bolster their roster. Players who were not dealt before the deadline can negotiate a contract buyout with their current team and join another (read: better) team.
After the Lakers did not make any trades, many eyes turned toward Cleveland center Andre Drummond, who reportedly asked to be bought out of his contract immediately after the Cavaliers could not find a trade partner for him.
Drummond’s desire to leave is not surprising. He has not played for the struggling Cavaliers since February 12, not long after Cleveland acquired its center of the future, Jarrett Allen.
The Lakers and Nets are reportedly interested in signing the two-time All-Star, setting up an off-the-court showdown among two of the NBA’s elite teams.
Drummond, 27, has an expiring contract, and he will likely be a rental player for a team trying to make a playoff run. Once his buyout is complete, Drummond must determine where to sign by April 9 if he wants to be eligible for the playoffs, which start in May.
The Lakers have needs at center because Marc Gasol has been inconsistent and Anthony Davis has missed almost six weeks because of calf and Achilles’ tendon soreness. An update on Davis’ condition is expected Friday from the Lakers.
Drummond is perennially among the NBA’s top rebounders and can score down low. He had two memorable games in January — 33 points and 23 rebounds against New York, and 26 points and 24 rebounds against Milwaukee.
The Lakers have two open roster spots, and the will presumably fill one, if not both, before April 9.
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