The 2023 Free Agency has produced several fluctuations. From Kyrie Irving eradicating the rumors in the opening hours to Celtics trading their ever-loyal Marcus Smart, it has not failed to surprise. Now that teams can officially sign players post the Free Agency Moratorium, roster changes won?t stop. Damian Lillard alone promises a lot of rumors and a surprising trade. However, one of the recent rumors revolves around the Lakers and the 6?9 forward.
Luka?s pick-and-roll partner Christian Wood reached the end of his contract this year with the Mavs. Despite his bird rights, the franchise hasn?t yet offered Wood an extension leaving him the odd man out.
Wood?s Future With Kyrie Irving and the Mavs
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In the 67 games Wood played for the Dallas Mavericks, he averaged around 16 points and 7 rebounds on 51.5% efficiency. The franchise added him to the fourth seeding roster in exchange for five players. Given the trade, Mavs had high expectations from the big man. In around 25 minutes Wood averaged with the team, he seemed to fit harmoniously well with their all-star way before Kyrie Irving stepped in.
Despite the connection, Mavs? unorthodox rotation of 3 centers in their lineup couldn?t efficiently push Wood on the court. The team also pulled off the infamous gambit to secure the first-round pick in the 2023 draft. They were fined $750,000 for purposely resting their players.
Given their notorious history, it is possible Mavericks expect a flowy cap space for the 2025 off-season. That could be another reason for disengaging from discussing long-term possibilities with Wood.?
Read More: Kobe Bryant?s ?Mamba Mentality? is Propelling Rockets? Christian Wood to NBA Stardom
However, Wood?s talent has been recognized by the league. Several contending teams are rumored to show interest in the center/forward. Even And believe it or not, Wood knows his talent. In his recent Twitter post, he displayed the same: “Bet on yourself and double down.”?
Bet on yourself and double down ..
— 35 (@Chriswood_5) July 10, 2023
Wood expects to make it big for himself. Fortunately, above all the teams batting an eye on the big man, the Lakers are stunted as the prominent frontrunners.?
Christian Wood Eyed by the Lakers
Los Angeles is looking to fill the 14th spot on their roster. While the franchise could not offer him his eligible max deal, they could offer Wood a genuine shot at the title.?
The Lakers are interested in Christian Wood, per @jovanbuha pic.twitter.com/PDMbpI2Hw1
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 10, 2023
Along with that, he?d be operating the frontcourt with Anthony Davis. To bolster their paint defense this season, the Lakers have also acquired Jaxson Hayes. Wood?s versatility further adds more strength in blocking shots from the weak side.?
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Christian Wood against the Lakers on Christmas:
• 30 points – 12/17 FG – 2/6 3pt
• 8 rebounds
• 7 assists
• 4 steals
• 2 blocksWould be a steal for the Vet min & would be much needed depth @ the 5 🤞🤞 pic.twitter.com/lrjctrPwzf
— 🌟Fake (@LALeBron23) July 10, 2023
Furthermore, Wood’s presence will bring essential size and depth to the Lakers’ bench, addressing a significant need for them. Moreover, his decent three-point shooting ability will provide an added dimension by stretching the floor on the offense.
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With Lakers’ core roster re-united for LeBron’s 21st season, could Christian Wood be their missing piece to strengthen the frontcourt and make a title run?