The Lakers GM Rob Pelinka set himself some lofty ambitions ahead of the free agency. With JJ Redick at the helm, the franchise indicated transitioning into a new system. But what is a system without the players? That’s been the case so far for the Lakers.

After the free agency door swung open from its hinges on Saturday, the teams tumbled over each other to capture their intended targets. Among the chasing pack, the Lakers’ absence was noteworthy. And even after more than 24 hours of the free agency market, the Lakers are in hibernation as the number keeps on getting thinner.

According to the voice of Lakers Nation, Trevor Lane, Jonas Valanciunas, Isaiah Hartenstein and Tobias Harris were among the LA side’s targets. First, Jonas Valanciunas was picked up by the Wizards, a target for the Lakers. The Lithuanian signed a 3-year, $30 million deal with the Washington side after joining free agency from the Pelicans. That wasn’t it for the Lakers as after the Wizards, the OKC Thunder landed another body blow. The OKC Thunder have signed free agent center, Isaiah Hartenstein, reports Adrian Wojnarowski. According to the NBA insider, the Oklahoma team struck a deal early on Monday to rope in the talented role player with a 3-year, $87 million contract.

Hartenstein signed with the Knicks in 2022 for a 2-year $16 million contract. The German center was a regular feature in the Knicks’ playoff run last season. After trading Josh Giddey, the OKC acquired Alex Caruso and now Hartenstein’s addition puts the OKC on the course of replicating their playoff success next season as well. The 7’1″ center was another option for the Lakers on the market and now both he and Valanciunas are off limits, raising questions over Pelinka’s offseason planning.

Now the market and the Lakers roster have a similar outlook and that is both are devoid of centers. JJ Redick’s introductory press conference suggested that Anthony Davis would take up the number 5 role. But given his niggly injury issues, if he misses even a single game, the Lakers won’t have a backup to him apart from Jaxson Hayes. So what are the options left for the Lakers to cover their C position? Let’s find out.

Available Centers in free agency for Lakers to choose from

The two big issues surrounding the Lakers were Bronny James‘ draft and the other one is LeBron James‘ contract. The previous one is dealt with the second one is on its course to be dealt with. The other significant headache for the Lakers is improving the roster. The LA franchise is currently looking at Klay Thompson and that might be a possible reason for Pelinka and Co. missing out on a whole host of centers. But there are still some options.

The most obvious name in the centers free agency is Precious Achiuwa. The 6’8″ Nigerian joined free agency from the Knicks and is a formidable piece in any championship-contending team. His 7.6 PPG from 50.1% field shooting and 6.6 rebounds show his two-way threat. Another option is Xavier Tillman, who could be a real asset. The 6’7″ C can also bring his championship experience from the Celtics to the young core of the Lakers.

A wildcard selection can be James Wiseman who recently was let go by the Warriors. The former overall 2nd pick had his issues with injury but when fit, can bring a game-changing element to the game. If none of these work, then a trade would be imperative and that would mean losing assets and possibly draft picks. But as things are progressing, the market is getting lighter every hour and the Lakers must act fast and act decisively.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what brand maker, Leonard Armato, had to say about the deadly duo, Shaq and Kobe, check out this video