NBA Rumors: Lakers & Warriors Pursue Veteran Centers to Strengthen Frontcourt Depth
As the 2025 NBA offseason approaches, two of the league’s most storied franchises, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors, are reportedly targeting veteran centers to bolster their frontcourt depth. Both teams aim to address critical gaps that were exposed during the recent playoff runs, with the Lakers seeking a reliable center to complement their star duo of LeBron James and Luka Dončić, and the Warriors looking to add size and rebounding to their lineup.
Los Angeles Lakers: Seeking a Reliable Center to Complement LeBron and Luka
The Lakers’ acquisition of Luka Dončić has added significant firepower to their roster. However, the team’s center position remains a concern. Veteran big men such as Nikola Vučević, Brook Lopez, and Jonas Valančiūnas have emerged as potential targets for Los Angeles.(The Times of India, basketnews.com)
Nikola Vučević: A Skilled Scorer and Rebounder
Nikola Vučević, currently with the Chicago Bulls, is averaging 20.2 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. His ability to stretch the floor with a 42.4% shooting percentage from three-point range makes him an attractive option for the Lakers. Reports suggest that Vučević is among Los Angeles’ top targets ahead of the trade deadline, with the team potentially offering players like Gabe Vincent, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Jalen Hood-Schifino in exchange .(The Playoffs, Reddit)
Brook Lopez: A Defensive Anchor with Championship Experience
Brook Lopez, a former Laker and 2021 NBA champion, brings valuable experience and defensive prowess to the table. At 36 years old, Lopez continues to be a formidable presence in the paint, averaging 11.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game this season. His shot-blocking ability and leadership qualities make him a compelling option for the Lakers .(basketnews.com)
Jonas Valančiūnas: A Physical Presence in the Paint
Jonas Valančiūnas, currently with the Washington Wizards, offers a different skill set. Known for his physicality and rebounding, Valančiūnas could provide the Lakers with the interior presence they need. His reasonable $10 million salary for the next two seasons makes him an appealing trade candidate .(NBA Trade Rumors)
Golden State Warriors: Pursuing Size and Rebounding
The Warriors, despite a strong finish to the season, are reportedly seeking to add a veteran center to their roster. With a healthy core led by Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green, Golden State aims to address their frontcourt depth. Nikola Vučević, Walker Kessler, John Collins, Jonas Valančiūnas, and Myles Turner have been linked to the Warriors in trade rumors .(SBNation.com, NBA Trade Rumors)
Nikola Vučević: A Versatile Scorer and Rebounder
As mentioned earlier, Nikola Vučević’s scoring and rebounding abilities make him an attractive option for both the Lakers and the Warriors. His potential fit with Golden State could provide the team with the size and scoring threat they desire in the frontcourt.
Walker Kessler: A Young Defensive Specialist
Walker Kessler, currently with the Utah Jazz, is known for his shot-blocking and rim protection. At just 22 years old, Kessler represents a long-term investment for the Warriors. However, reports indicate that the Jazz have turned down various offers, including first-round picks, for Kessler, suggesting that acquiring him may require a significant trade package .(Reddit)
John Collins: A Versatile Forward-Center
John Collins, also with the Utah Jazz, offers versatility as a forward-center. His ability to stretch the floor and contribute both inside and outside could complement the Warriors’ playing style. As with Kessler, acquiring Collins may necessitate a substantial trade offer.
Myles Turner: A Shot-Blocking Specialist
Myles Turner, currently with the Indiana Pacers, is renowned for his shot-blocking and rim protection. His defensive capabilities could bolster the Warriors’ interior defense. However, reports suggest that both Turner and the Pacers are interested in extending their partnership, which may complicate any potential trade discussions .(NBA Trade Rumors)
Conclusion
Both the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors are actively seeking to strengthen their frontcourts by targeting veteran centers. The Lakers aim to find a reliable center to complement their star duo, while the Warriors look to add size and rebounding to their lineup. With several veteran centers available, including Nikola Vučević, Brook Lopez, Jonas Valančiūnas, Walker Kessler, John Collins, and Myles Turner, the offseason promises to be an exciting period of roster reshaping for these two championship-contending teams.
