The Los Angeles Lakers hit yet another iceberg this offseason! Out of all the teams, the Lakers had one of the worst summers this year. The franchise couldn’t add an All-Star to their lineup nor did they make any significant changes. Instead, following the Draft, it seemed as if the Lakers were relying on their current roster to have a better season next year. However, the Lakers can’t seem to catch a break as their supporting center, Christian Woods goes down, yet again.

Wood played 50 games last year after coming from Dallas. The 6-foot-8 forward/center couldn’t continue the season due to injury, consequently missing the entirety of the playoffs. Still, Wood was hopeful of a comeback and so were the Lakers. Sadly, the 28-year-old underwent surgery on his left knee and is set to be re-evaluated in eight weeks. This means that there won’t be any probable date for his return for the next two months!

Now, Wood is a talented player. His performance peaked during his stint with the Rockets back in 2021. Wood averaged 21 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists while shooting over 51% from the field. If anything, he could’ve been a much-needed center for AD‘s replacement. However, Wood’s extended return might call for a desperate move from the front office. The Lakers can look to bring in a big man to fill in the spot for Wood.

But how can they do that? As of now, the only legitimate center for the Lakers apart from AD is Jaxson Hayes. Quite frankly, Hayes played 70 games last year, coming off the bench in most of them. He recently exercised his $2.4 million player option for the upcoming season. On the other hand, while the Lakers have shown interest in signing Jonas Valanciunas, the Lithuanian signed a three-year deal with the Wizards. But the Lakers need not to worry.

The Blazers are looking to trade Robert Willimas III who is an exceptional big man and can be useful for the Laker roster. If not Valanciunas, Williams will definitely be a suitable option to go for till Wood finally makes his return. Now, Christian Wood will be missing the training camp, the pre-season, and the initial games of the regular season. This does not close the window on Wood’s redemption season, as he can still step onto the court this year if all goes well.

Christian Wood is yet to prove himself productive for the Lakers

Following his stint with the Rockets, Wood saw a decline in his numbers. Now, in Dallas, Wood came off the bench while averaging 16.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. Still, Christian was doing pretty well on his part. But the left knee injury would go on to change the trajectory of his career. he is still a threat in the paint and will be looking to prove himself once he returns. As a starter, Wood has been the most productive, but finding a role alongside James and AD on the floor might just be tough for the new head coach to manage.

Christian Wood will be best suited to coming in with the second unit. Not only that but playing alongside younger players can boost Wood’s production while he comes off an injury. Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see Wood make his return next season, as Lakers fans hope for his speedy recovery.

What are your thoughts on Christian Wood’s injury? Do you think he’ll be back by November this year? Let us know in the comments.

Feel that you can do with another update from the sport of basketball? Then do check out this recent interview with the up-and-coming Georgia Lady Bulldogs star Asia Avinger.