It's become common knowledge that the Los Angeles Lakers are in the market for an upgrade at center. The Lakers have been linked to a number of intriguing names, including Washington Wizards big man Jonas Valanciunas and Milwaukee Bucks anchor Brook Lopez.
The latest name to join the list may create the sense of a convoluted search for an ideal center, but it should actually inspire a positive response from Lakers fans.
Los Angeles' interest in the current list of players has yet to materialize as formal trade offers, but as December 15 nears and players who were signed during the 2024 period of free agency become available, that could soon change. As such, it should come as no surprise that the Lakers' group of targets is expanding—including an up-and-comer whose own free agency is looming.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Lakers are one of several teams that are interested in trading for Brooklyn Nets center Day'Ron Sharpe.
"Sharpe, who’s eligible for restricted free agency this summer, is being monitored by the Grizzlies, Clippers, Pelicans, Lakers, and Raptors, league sources told HoopsHype."
Sharpe is one of the most intriguing young bigs in the NBA, as well as a potentially perfect fit based on timeline, areas of strength, and upside.
Day'Ron Sharpe proof the Lakers are leaving no stone unturned
Sharpe, 23, is a 6'9" and 265-pound center with a 7'0" wingspan. He received erratic playing time during his first three seasons with the Nets, but has managed to impress when opportunities have been presented to him.
In 2023-24, Sharpe averaged 6.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.6 offensive boards, 1.4 assists, and 0.7 blocks in just 15.1 minutes per game.
Those numbers translate to 16.2 points, 15.2 rebounds, 6.3 offensive boards, 3.3 assists, and 1.7 blocks per 36 minutes. Those absurd statistics illustrate the value he'd bring to Los Angeles as an elite offensive rebounder.
Further evidence can be found in the fact that Sharpe ranked No. 2 in the NBA in offensive rebounding percentage in 2023-24 at 16.3—while no qualified Laker checked in higher than 9.3.
Even if you aren't sold on Sharpe, there's a bigger picture to consider here. The simple fact that the Lakers are exploring this option is a sign that general manager Rob Pelinka has his priorities in line as far as what the Lakers need most is concerned.
Sharpe is productive in the areas where the Lakers are the weakest and has the strong frame that could help Los Angeles finally keep the opposition off the glass.
Thus far in 2024-25, the Lakers are No. 26 in the NBA in both offensive rebounds and second-chance points allowed per game. The common theme with who the Lakers seem to be targeting is that they either specialize as rebounders or have the strong frame to battle down low against heavier bigs.
No matter who the Lakers ultimately pursue in a trade, what's clear is that their priority is addressing an undeniable flaw—a truth that should have Lakers fans encouraged by the possibilities.
