Lakers Showing Interest in Mo Bamba
The Lakers have been linked in trade talks for Magic center Mo Bamba. With Anthony Davis suffering an injury, LA has even less depth at center.
According to Yahoo Sports' Jake Fischer, the Lakers have shown recent trade interest in Mo Bamba and Terrence Ross:https://t.co/oip2faLLN0
— BasketballNews.com (@basketbllnews) December 21, 2022
Thomas Bryant has thrived in the starting role, but the depth of Wenyen Gabriel and Damian Jones has not been great. Gabriel has been a solid hustle and effort player for Los Angeles but is a small-ball center. However, Jones has not been a productive backup, as he is a -40 on the floor this season.
Thomas Bryant in 4 games since the Anthony Davis injury:
— Champ (@champprodu) December 22, 2022
• 17.5ppg
• 7.8rpg
• 2.0apg
• 63.6% From 3🔥‼️
Definitely stepping up big📈#nba #NBAAllStar #NBA2K23 #NBATwitter #Lakers #LosAngeles #lebron #lebronjames #lakerskings #sacramentokings #kings #lakeshow #BeamTeam pic.twitter.com/MCVrZO0LlO
Trading for Bamba would give Darvin Ham’s group much-needed depth. A trade could also make sense for Bamba and the Magic, as they have a ton of depth in the frontcourt. The 24-year-old re-signed with Orlando on a two-year $20 million deal in the offseason.
Before he re-signed, the Lakers expressed interest in signing the big man. With his name on the trade market, they should pursue him.
Bamba is having a good season, averaging 8/5/1 with a block while shooting 50% from the field and 37.2% from three. He would be an excellent fit for LA, as he gives them the size they need. Bamba’s rebounding, shot blocking, and ability to stretch the floor make him a valuable young player.
The Orlando Magic are seeking a first-round pick for Mo Bamba, per @JakeLFischer pic.twitter.com/od2UfcAB3l
— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) December 21, 2022
He would be a great backup for the LakeShow and is on a reasonable contract. If they can swing a deal for him, Bamba would be really impactful in the Lakers rotation.
I want Patrick Beverley traded immediately. pic.twitter.com/aKTcG5y3fy
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) December 14, 2022
Patrick Beverley's contract would match, and adding a pick could get the deal done.
Rob Pelinka and the front office have work to do, and we’ll see if they make a move in an attempt to salvage the season.