Adequate big-man targets shouldn’t be challenging for the Los Angeles Lakers to locate in free agency.
However, it isn’t always easy to identify the perfect fit. With Blazer’s Edge’s Adrian Bernecich's assistance, though, the Lakers could hit the jackpot by swapping a starting forward for a former Phoenix Suns star center.
“In order to maximize (Luka) Doncic moving forward, the Lakers need a big man who can catch lobs, hit midrange jumpers, rebound at a high level, and play at least average defense,” Bernecich wrote Saturday. “Sound like anyone we know?”
“Yielded in the Damian Lillard trade, Deandre Ayton has (almost) been the player we expected, with a lack of consistency his biggest flaw. Let’s start with returning salary. Rui Hachimura is a no-brainer. With only one year left, he’s a rotation forward earning $18.2 million, an amount that gets you halfway there."
“From here, the Lakers could add Dorian Finney-Smith, which pretty much gets you to Ayton’s number. But my guess is they’d prefer to keep Finney-Smith and opt for one of three $11-to $11.5 million players in Maxi Kleber, Gabe Vincent, or Jarred Vanderbilt. “
“Vanderbilt is my least favorite as he still has three years left on his deal. The Lakers will also have to add Dalton Knecht and/or Shake Milton to make it legal.”
Ayton was far from a liability with the Suns.
While his three-point shot has never been a strong suit, he enjoyed a successful five-year tenure with the Devin Booker-led franchise by paying attention to detail in the pick-and-roll, thriving in the high post, grabbing defensive boards, and altering shots around the rim.
The Arizona product helped Phoenix secure a spot in the 2021 Western Conference Finals, averaging 14.4 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game while shooting 62.6% from the field.
That said, it’s essential to note that Ayton’s eventual downfall was due to his poor work ethic and inability to maintain high energy for extended periods. These two traits have also plagued him with the Portland Trail Blazers during the past two seasons.
Assuming Ayton improves his motor/effort, the Lakers could complete an underrated trade for the 26-year-old center.
Hachimura is a significant part of the Lakers’ new-look offense with Doncic, but with a big man like Ayton likely being available, he would have to continue his career in Portland to make a deal work.
