
via Imago
Image Credits: IMAGN

via Imago
Image Credits: IMAGN
The Los Angeles Lakers‘ biggest ongoing issue this season has been their lack of depth, particularly at the center position. With the team aiming for a title, it’s clear that a move is likely on the horizon. The Lakers are reportedly eyeing several potential additions, and guess what, they might make a move before the trade deadline to shore up their roster.
Rumor has it the Lakers have an eye on Jonas Valanciunas. Honestly, it makes a ton of sense, right? Bringing him on board would give them exactly what they’re missing—size and a steady veteran presence at the center.
Let’s face it, their frontcourt depth isn’t cutting it, and Valanciunas could be the answer to that problem. With him in the mix, Davis could slide forward (his preferred position) and earn some much-needed rest, or even sit out a game entirely. Right now, the Lakers don’t want AD to bust his legs up!
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad

USA Today via Reuters
Apr 16, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis (3) dribbles against New Orleans Pelicans center Jonas Valanciunas (17) during the second half of a play-in game of the 2024 NBA playoffs at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
Poll of the day
Poll 1 of 5
Where do you buy NBA tickets online?
Ticketmaster
TickPick
StubHub
SeatGeek
Is LeBron James' vocal leadership the key to the Lakers' playoff success?
Absolutely, he's the heart of the team
No, it's more about the team's overall talent
It's a combination of both
LeBron's leadership is overrated
Whats your Perspective on:
Is Gabe Vincent and second-round picks enough for Valanciunas, or are the Lakers dreaming big?
Have an interesting take?
Do you think Anthony Davis's complaints about his position justified his trade from the Lakers?
Yes, he needed a change
No, he should have adapted
It's part of the game
Not sure
Is Carmelo Anthony right to be concerned about private equity's impact on NBA ownership?
Yes, it's ruining the game
No, it's just business
Players should adapt
Not sure
Are the Lakers' recent struggles a sign of deeper issues within the team?
Yes, they need a major shake-up
No, it's just a rough patch
LeBron and Luka need to step up
Coaching is the problem
Want to dive deeper?
Here are the articles that inspired recent polls.
AD
This would ease the heavy minutes Davis is logging, which currently sits at 35.5 per game. The Lakers need him fresh for a playoff push, especially in the stacked Western Conference. They need AD healthy and ready for the grind. Valančiūnas could take some of that pressure off giving Davis the chance to stay fresh for when it really counts.
But here’s the real question: what’s the price tag for snagging Valanciunas?
Gabe Vincent and second-round picks!
The community was reportedly waiting to hear more, but it seems like this is it. They had to react to such an offer.
What’s your perspective on:
Is Gabe Vincent and second-round picks enough for Valanciunas, or are the Lakers dreaming big?
Have an interesting take?
The fans feel like the Wizards would get fleeced if they accepted this offer
One user wrote on X, “No way that’s enough”. Throughout his career, he’s averaged 25.6 minutes per game. In 2024, he’s shooting an impressive 58.1% from inside the paint. Though he’s putting up 12 points per game this season, that number might reflect the struggles of playing for a rebuilding Wizards team rather than any signs of a drop in scoring ability. So that person’s right, no way the Wizards let him go that easily.
Another netizen said, “Biggest scam if that’s enough for Jonas lmao”. Since joining the Lakers on a 3-year, $33 million deal, Vincent has been far from the impact player many expected. Injuries and inconsistent shooting have plagued his time in LA, preventing him from living up to the hype. Getting him in place of Valanciunas along with second-round picks would mean the Wizards lost the trade.
This isn’t nearly enough for the big man the Lakers franchise wants. One user expressed, “Why would Wizards accept this?*laughing emoji*” Vincent missed most of the 23-24 season due to a knee injury. This also raises questions about his ability to stay fit. The Wizards are on a rebuild. Why would they want to add more deadweight?
REPORT: The Lakers could offer Gabe Vincent and 2nd-round picks for Jonas Valanciunashttps://t.co/VpvSgqm63K
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) December 2, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
“Yeah nah they gonna need to do better than that lmaoooo” said one user. The Lakers need to offer first-round picks and the Wizards need them for their rebuild. Plus, the Wizards’ roster is full of youth and inexperience. Likewise, a veteran like D’Angelo Russell could sweeten the deal and help the Wizards.
This one reaction sums up the Lakers offer the best “Lakers are always like here’s our worst player give us one of your best players *laughing emoji*”. Gabe Vincent, along with second-round picks, isn’t simply going to cut it. Plus, they need to outbid other franchises as well.
This trade looks impossible for the Lakers to offer right now. A trade is made so that both teams can benefit, but with this offer, the only one winning is the Lakers.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Have something to say?
Let the world know your perspective.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Debate
Is Gabe Vincent and second-round picks enough for Valanciunas, or are the Lakers dreaming big?