
The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly keeping tabs on Washington Wizards center Jonas Valanciunas as they explore options to strengthen their frontcourt.
NBA insider Jake Fischer has indicated that Valanciunas remains a prominent name on the Lakers’ radar as the team evaluates potential trade opportunities. According to Fischer, the Wizards’ big man is “definitely available for trade.”
Valanciunas, 32, is currently averaging 12.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 20.1 minutes per game off the bench this season.
He signed a three-year, $30.3 million contract with the Wizards during the offseason, making him a valuable, yet attainable, asset for a team like Los Angeles seeking an interior presence.
The Lakers have also reportedly shown interest in Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez. Lopez, a former Defensive Player of the Year finalist, brings elite shot-blocking and defensive capabilities, which could fill critical gaps in Los Angeles’ frontcourt.
Lopez, 36, is averaging 12.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game while playing 32.5 minutes a night. He is in the final year of a two-year, $48 million contract, making him another realistic target for a mid-season trade.