There are various assets the Los Angeles Lakers could reunite with this season, but the organization will likely have to settle for one.
If Los Angeles feels compelled to trade for a cherished NBA champion big man who spent the 2017-18 campaign with the Lakers, they should target the Milwaukee Bucks’ starting center.
“Brook Lopez is still getting it done for the Bucks this season, averaging 12.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game, while the Bucks are sitting at 11-9 and starting to look like a contending team slowly,” Fadeaway World’s Fran Leiva wrote Wednesday.
“There’s been talk of the Bucks possibly shaking things up, and Lopez’s name has started popping up as a potential trade piece.”
“Enter the Lakers, who desperately need a big man to pair with Anthony Davis. They’ve been linked to guys like Walker Kessler, Jonas Valanciunas, and Robert Williams III, but Lopez might be the best fit.”
“He’s an elite rim protector who can also stretch the floor with his three-point shooting—something none of those other guys can do at his level. With Lopez on board, LeBron and AD would have more space to work, and the Lakers’ offense could finally open up.”
“On defense, Lopez would be a huge upgrade. His shot-blocking would give the Lakers a true anchor in the paint, letting Davis play to his strengths as a versatile defender who can switch onto just about anyone.”
“And let’s not forget, Lopez has championship experience and knows what it takes to perform when it matters most.”
“For Lopez, a move to L.A. could mean another chance at a deep playoff run. He spent one season with the Lakers back in 2017-18, and while the team wasn’t competitive then, this version of the Lakers is built to contend.”
“If the Bucks are serious about moving pieces, the Lakers should jump on the opportunity to bring Lopez back.”
“It’s a reunion that just makes sense. The financial side of this deal is tricky, but D’Angelo Russell, Christian Wood, Maxwell Lewis, and a 2029 first-rounder might be a good deal for the Bucks.”
The Bucks are finally starting to look like a competent ball club. The organization has prevailed in seven consecutive contests to improve to 11-9 this season.
Understandably, Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo have received most of the praise for Milwaukee’s encouraging turnaround, but there’s no question Lopez has played his part with the Bucks.
While Lopez’s rebounding numbers are below average, the 7-foot-1 center averages 12.3 points per game on 47.6% shooting from the field and 36.4% from three-point land.
As a stretch five with the magic touch around the rim, Lopez is a challenging matchup for many opposing big men.
While Lopez probably wouldn’t come cheap, it would make sense for the Lakers to consider a possible reunion with the 2021 NBA champion