The Los Angeles Lakers are seeking a backup center to reinforce their roster. According to team insider Dan Woike, the Lakers are scouting the open market for a backup big man for Walker Kessler. Their last result was a 110-115 loss to Oklahoma City Thunder on 2026-05-12.
What happened?
The Lakers have been struggling to find consistency, with a recent form of 0W-0D-5L, and are looking to address their needs at the wing and backup center positions.
Why it matters for Los Angeles Lakers
Noah Clowney, a 22-year-old big man from the Brooklyn Nets, has been identified as a potential target. Clowney, who was selected in the first round of the 2023 NBA Draft, has shown promise, averaging 12.3 points and 4.1 rebounds per game in his third season.
What comes next?
A proposed trade framework could see the Lakers receive Clowney in exchange for Dalton Knecht and a 2031 second-round pick. This move would provide the Lakers with a low-risk, high-upside target, as Clowney is on an expiring $5.4 million contract. The Lakers' need for a backup center is evident, given their current roster construction. With Kevon Looney's 21 games and Kessler's five games last season, the team is hunting for reinforcement at the center position. Clowney's skill set, which includes the ability to dribble on the perimeter, drive to the basket, and generate his own scoring opportunities, makes him an attractive option. He is also an explosive lob threat with strong scoring ability, having logged seven 20-point games and one 30-point game last season. Playing alongside an elite playmaker like Luka Doncic could help Clowney take a major leap. The Lakers' trade offer is not steep, considering Knecht's minimal improvement in his first two seasons and the team's need for another frontcourt option. As the Lakers continue to rebuild their roster, addressing their needs at the wing and backup center positions is crucial. With the center market being largely a mess, finding another big man capable of playing substantial minutes will be a challenge. The Lakers' recent form, with a 0W-0D-5L record, highlights the need for reinforcements. Their last result, a 110-115 loss to Oklahoma City Thunder on 2026-05-12, demonstrates the urgency to strengthen their roster. Noah Clowney's potential move to the Lakers could be a significant step in addressing their needs. As reported by Dan Woike, the Lakers are actively seeking a backup center, and Clowney's skills make him a viable option. The proposed trade framework, which includes Dalton Knecht and a 2031 second-round pick, is a reasonable offer considering the Lakers' needs and Clowney's potential. As the Lakers look to improve their roster, they must consider all available options. With the NBA trade market being highly competitive, the Lakers must act quickly to secure their target. The Lakers' search for a backup center is ongoing, and Noah Clowney remains a potential target. As the team continues to rebuild, addressing their needs at the wing and backup center positions is essential. The center market is largely a mess, but the Lakers are determined to find a suitable backup center. With the NBA season approaching, the Lakers must finalize their roster soon. Noah Clowney's move to the Lakers could be a significant step in strengthening their roster. As the team looks to improve, they must consider all available options and act quickly to secure their target.
