However, it appears like the Lakers might be pursuing the wrong free players, according to the most recent information from Yahoo Sports’ Jake Fischer. Fischer claims that Jonas Valanciunas of the New Orleans Pelicans is one name the Lakers may take into consideration. It is a strong offensive center in Valanciunas.

He is a threat on the boards and has the ability to score on the inside and post up. He gives the paint some physicality. He is among the league’s worst defensive big men at the same time. Due to his poor footwork, he is unable to cover the perimeter. Nor is he able to make threes. He is the epitome of the conventional center.

LeBron James and Anthony Davis are not the best of friends with that partner. The Lakers require more contemporary big men and wings with respectable shooting and defense skills. A center like Valanciunas next to Davis lowers your defensive ceiling and causes all kinds of problems with offensive spacing.

For the Lakers to thrive, AD must play center for prolonged stretches of time, and both the Lakers and AD need to realize this. Davis’s shooting isn’t good enough at this point in his career to be used as a power forward. In order to effectively use his excellent rim protection, he also needs to get as near to the basket as possible on defense.

For this reason, it is not a good idea to target any traditional center unless they are only going to be Davis’ backup. Hopefully, Redick and Pelinka have the same viewpoint.