“I think we need another big.” Anthony Davis’ shocking confession about the Lakers’ desperate need for a true Center has left the hoop world buzzing. Yes, he reminisced about the time when he had Dwight Howard and JaVale McGee on his squad, and they won the championship together, “I feel like I’ve always been at my best when I’ve been a four and having a big out there.” But Rob Pelinka has failed to add such firepower since the Bubble run, which has led many to believe that he has his doubts about LeBron James and AD’s potential.

While there are several available options in the trade market, Pelinka has been reluctant to give up his draft capital to form a win-now team. Veteran insider Anthony Irwin claimed, “For years running, there has been doubt internally, within the Lakers organization, as to whether LeBron James and Anthony Davis were worth going all-in on.”

Maybe it’s LBJ’s age or Davis’ injury-prone nature, but it sure looks like Rob does not want to risk the franchise’s future by banking on them. However, AD’s plea might have finally pushed the GM to make a move as six Centers have emerged for potential pursuit.

As per another veteran insider Evan Sidery, Pelinka recently checked in with the Raptors about Jakob Poeltl. Well, Poeltl is a versatile big who is having a career year, averaging 14.7 points and over ten rebounds—exactly what the Lakers need. Obviously, they will have to give up some key assets to acquire him, which could include Rui Hachimura, Jalen Hood-Schifino, and some draft capital.

Considering the form Poeltl is in, it would take a huge offer for the Toronto franchise to even consider trading him.

Meanwhile, another star who could solve the Lakers’ problems is Nikola Vucevic. And per Brett Siegel, he has piqued the team’s interest, “Late Thursday evening, league sources informed ClutchPoints that the Lakers are still highly interested in Bulls center Nikola Vucevic. In fact, it would not be crazy to call Vucevic one of Los Angeles’ top targets ahead of the trade deadline.”

Of course, Vuc is a two-time All-Star and has been in incredible form, averaging 20.1 points and over ten boards. Moreover, the Bulls have been actively looking to part ways with their stars ever since the DeMar DeRozan trade. So, it’s no surprise that Pelinka is pursuing Vucevic. While the pursuit for these two bigs is still on, four more names have been suggested by a familiar face.

Dwight Howard helps Rob Pelinka’s search amid Anthony Davis’ desperate plea

Following AD’s public confession, Dwight responded on X with a cryptic tweet, “It ain’t that hard to find a Center.” Obviously, many thought he was talking about himself because it was only a few months ago that he revealed his desire to play in the NBA again, “20 would be amazing. That’s how long I want to play. That was my dream when I first started. My goal was to play 20 years… If a team need a big, count me in.”

Despite his age, DH is in great shape and has been dominating overseas. So, he could be a considerable option for Pelinka. But turns out, Howard was not talking about himself, and had four other options in mind. “Boogie, JaVale, Okafor, Kenneth… it’s a lot of options out there don’t mind me I just be trolling,” he tweeted.

Well, all the listed options were once elite Centers but are no longer part of any NBA team. And it is highly likely that they are looking for a second chance in the league. Sure enough, Pelinka could be the one to give them that chance and he would not have to give up a lot to acquire them. And it could solve the team’s size problem and please AD.

But should we look at how they could help the Purple & Gold? Let’s do a quick dive.

• DeMarcus Cousins: Despite his setbacks with injuries, Boogie’s offensive game has always been a standout. His ability to stretch the floor and get buckets down low could be exactly what LA needs to complement Davis’ versatile play.
• JaVale McGee: McGee brings a defensive spark that could be a game-changer for the Lakers. Known for his rim protection and shot-blocking he’d slot in nicely to provide a much-needed defensive anchor. There’s also his experience playing with LeBron and Anthony. It could help him get back to business quickly, making him quite a strong fit for a potential return.
• Jahlil Okafor: Now, Okafor might not be the rim protector Los Angeles desperately needs, but he’s a proven scorer in the paint. For a team that’s been struggling in consistent interior scoring, he could be a reliable post option. Moreover, Okafor’s ability to get to the basket and finish around the rim would give the Lakers an extra dimension in their offense. Particularly, when AD is resting or not in the low block.
• Kenneth Faried: The veteran center’s rebounding, defense, and athleticism could give the Purple & Gold with a dynamic presence off the bench, and in high-energy games. Those who know ‘The Manimal’ wouldn’t disagree that his hustle and energy are truly contagious. As such, Faried could be exactly what the team needs to keep the pace up and provide a spark when the game slows down.

Clearly, each of these bigs has something unique to offer. They may no longer be in the spotlight, but they could still bring value to a Lakers squad looking for a reliable center. Well, who do you think they should pursue?