DeAndre Jordan, C, Los Angeles Clippers
One way or another, the Lakers are likely going to have to inject this lineup with new talent at center this offseason. There’s a very good chance Brook Lopez isn’t re-signed, especially with his asking price likely too high for Magic’s tastes.
But what if the Lakers can only land one of LeBron and PG-13? If that’s the case, they’ll have enough money to secure another big name on the open market. While that may not necessarily be the approach (waiting until 2019 will be a consideration), the progress this team has shown since the All-Star break could convince the front office to go into “win now” mode.
One consideration will have to be DeAndre Jordan. While the general consensus is he’s interested in either re-signing with the Los Angeles Clippers or joining the Dallas Mavericks, anything can happen. Jordan could theoretically be interested in inking a deal with the Lakers, especially considering their trajectory and proximity to his current living situation.
Now some may say that using that money on Lopez may be more logical. That’s a fair point, but I believe the added rim protection is more worth the cost. Jordan immediately upgrades the Lakers’ defense, seeing as he’s one of the best bigs in the league in terms of blocking shots and cleaning the boards.
Jordan comes with his limitations, but is a premier talent nonetheless. If the Lakers decide to use that cap space on a big man, he’s one of several options they could consider.