Los Angeles Lakers: 5 centers to target in 2018 NBA free agency
By Dan Lovi
4. Amir Johnson
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Amir Johnson has spent his entire NBA journey on the east coast. Now in the latter stages of his career, the former No. 56 overall pick in the 2005 NBA Draft could make his way back home.
Last season with Philadelphia, Johnson averaged 4.6 points and 4.5 rebounds in 15.8 minutes per game, including 18 starts. The 13-year veteran was brought in to help mentor the young Sixers, and the Lakers could pursue him this offseason for the same reason.
A natural power forward, Johnson fits in well at the center position in a small-ball lineup, which the Lakers frequently deploy. He’s got a solid mid-range game and is a reliable defender.
Johnson was a star at Westchester High School in Los Angeles, which is less than 20 miles away from Staples Center. It’s been a few years since his high school glory days, but coming home to help mentor a young Lakers core could be just what he’s looking for.