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SHENZHEN, CHINA – OCTOBER 12: Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the match against the Brooklyn Nets during a preseason game as part of 2019 NBA Global Games China at Shenzhen Universiade Center on October 12, 2019 in Shenzhen, Guangdong, China. (Photo by Zhong Zhi/Getty Images)
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SHENZHEN, CHINA – OCTOBER 12: Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the match against the Brooklyn Nets during a preseason game as part of 2019 NBA Global Games China at Shenzhen Universiade Center on October 12, 2019 in Shenzhen, Guangdong, China. (Photo by Zhong Zhi/Getty Images)
Ever since the lakers waived off Quinn Cook, widespread speculation has been there linking them with different players. None more so than DeMarcus Cousins, who was part of their roster last season. Since he is himself parting ways with the Rockets, people consider him the favorite to rejoin.
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However, a report by Brad Turner of the Los Angeles Times contradicts that –
“There are no immediate plans to fill Cook’s roster spot, and multiple people with knowledge of the situation said they don’t expect the Lakers to reunite with Houston center DeMarcus Cousins if he becomes available as expected. The team will, however, monitor the buyout and trade markets for potential additions to their frontcourt.”
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USA Today via Reuters
Jan 2, 2021; Houston, Texas, USA; DeMarcus Cousins #15 of the Houston Rockets reacts following a call during the first quarter of a game against the Sacramento Kings at Toyota Center on January 02, 2021 in Houston, Texas. Mandatory Credit: Carmen Mandato/Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports
So, with Boogie Cousins not tipped for a reunion, who can Rob Pelinka & Co. target to strengthen their frontcourt?
Players Lakers should target
1) Hassan Whiteside
The purple and gold need a rim protector in the absence of Anthony Davis since the likes of Marc Gasol and Montrezl Harrell are ineffective in his department. So, the Sacramento Kings‘ back-up is perfectly suited to this role. In 14.6 minutes per game, he is averaging 8.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game.
As seen by his numbers, he is an elite shot blocker. The only downside to Whiteside is that he is limited in the offensive department. He can’t provide even a third of what Gasol provides in floor spacing. But that is not their immediate concern and he is a quality player for the role.
2) Rondae Hollis-Jefferson
He is a free agent right now after the Timberwolves released him. Yet again, he is offensively limited, but he is a hustler on defense. He can guard multiple positions on the court.
Rondae fits perfectly into Frank Vogel’s defensive system and will provide valuable energy off the bench. He could be their Alex Caruso part two.
These should be the top two priority targets for the Lakers‘ front office. They are high value for their money. And should help them fill the void left by Anthony Davis to some extent.
Read More – How Does the Departure of Veteran Guard Quinn Cook Affect the Los Angeles Lakers?
