As the new season kicks off, the Lakers’ lack of size in the frontcourt has become a glaring issue, and Anthony Davis may be bearing the brunt of it. Despite a balanced roster, as noted by JJ Redick, the Lakers are feeling the pressure in the Western Conference, where teams with dominant centers like Denver’s Nikola Jokic and the emerging Victor Wembanyama at San Antonio pose a real threat. The need for size has led Lakers GM Rob Pelinka to explore options, including Hornets center Nick Richards, as a backup to give Davis a break from the center role he’s often reluctant to play.
The Lakers’ attempt to acquire a big man started with a failed bid for Jonas Valanciunas, who signed with the Wizards after Pelinka’s offer reportedly fell short. Instead, Pelinka has turned his attention to Richards, a young and improving center who averaged a career-high 9.7 points and 8 rebounds last season. His defensive capabilities and shot-blocking skills would give the Lakers some much-needed paint presence, allowing Davis to shift back to his preferred forward position.
As of now, Davis has started all his preseason games at center, but his desire for a more traditional big man alongside him has been clear. Richards could be an affordable solution, given he has two years left on a $10 million contract—an attractive option that wouldn’t require the Lakers to deplete their assets.
According to insider Trevor Lane, Pelinka’s hesitation on a fully guaranteed multi-year deal is what led Valanciunas to opt for Washington. “If the Lakers’ offer to Valanciunas was just one guaranteed year… then that decision cost them.” With Pelinka missing out on one big man, the team’s ability to find an alternative like Richards could determine their potential in a conference loaded with size and talent.
Is pushing AD to play center hindering the Lakers’ championship hopes? Adding a player like Richards may provide an answer, allowing Davis to play his natural role. For now, the Lakers’ quest for a true center remains an ongoing debate as they attempt to build a roster capable of taking on the league’s elite bigs.
