Jan 30, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) holds the ball as Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma (33) defends in the third quarter at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
After the Mark Williams trade was canceled, the Lakers signed free agency center Alex Len.
The Lakers’ Roster Moves: From the Mark Williams Trade Collapse to the Signing of Alex Len
Introduction
The Los Angeles Lakers have had a tumultuous few weeks in their efforts to solidify their frontcourt, culminating in a dramatic series of events that saw them rescind a trade for promising young center Mark Williams and quickly pivot to signing veteran big man Alex Len. This article provides an in-depth look at how these events unfolded, the impact on the Lakers’ season, and what fans can expect moving forward.
The Mark Williams Trade That Never Happened
Background of the Trade
As the NBA trade deadline approached, the Lakers actively sought to bolster their center rotation following Anthony Davis’ departure to the Dallas Mavericks. In what initially seemed like a strategic and promising move, the Lakers agreed to acquire Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets. The trade involved sending Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a 2030 pick swap, and the Lakers’ 2031 first-round pick to Charlotte.
Why the Trade Was Rescinded
However, the deal quickly fell apart when Williams failed his physical examination with the Lakers. Reports suggested that Williams’ medical evaluation revealed lingering concerns over his past injuries, specifically issues related to his knee and foot, which cast doubt on his immediate and long-term durability.
Charlotte, on the other hand, contested the Lakers’ findings, asserting that Williams was fit to play. The Hornets even sought NBA intervention to challenge the decision, arguing that the Lakers had voided the trade unfairly. Ultimately, the NBA upheld Los Angeles’ right to rescind the deal based on medical grounds.
The Fallout and Immediate Impact on the Lakers
A Hole in the Roster
The collapse of the Mark Williams trade left the Lakers with a glaring hole at the center position. With Anthony Davis gone and Christian Wood sidelined due to knee surgery, the Lakers were left relying heavily on Jaxson Hayes and two-way player Colin Castleton to provide interior defense and rebounding.
Fan Reactions and Team Strategy
Fans and analysts alike expressed frustration with the failed trade, as Williams was seen as a young, athletic big who could have provided much-needed rim protection and rebounding. The Lakers’ front office, led by Rob Pelinka, was now under pressure to act swiftly to find an alternative solution.
The Signing of Alex Len
Who is Alex Len?
In response to their void at the center position, the Lakers moved quickly to sign veteran free agent Alex Len. The 31-year-old Ukrainian center had started the season with the Sacramento Kings before being included in a three-team trade that ultimately sent him to the Washington Wizards, who subsequently waived him.
Len has had a journeyman career since being drafted fifth overall in the 2013 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns. He has played for multiple teams, including the Atlanta Hawks, Toronto Raptors, and two separate stints with the Kings. Over his 12-year career, Len has established himself as a solid defensive presence with decent rebounding ability and shot-blocking skills.
Why Did the Lakers Sign Him?
The decision to sign Len was driven by immediate necessity. While he may not be as dynamic or young as Mark Williams, he provides a steady veteran presence in the paint. With his 7’0” frame and defensive experience, Len is expected to contribute as a rim protector and rebounder.
Additionally, Len’s ability to play spot minutes in a backup center role gives the Lakers more flexibility in their rotations, allowing them to better manage Jaxson Hayes’ minutes and provide depth for a potential playoff push.
How Will Alex Len Fit in the Lakers’ System?
Defensive Role
Defensively, Len is a traditional center who primarily operates in drop coverage schemes. This fits well with the Lakers’ defensive philosophy under head coach Darvin Ham, who prefers having a shot-blocking presence anchoring the defense.
Offensive Contributions
While Len is not known for his offensive prowess, he is effective in pick-and-roll situations and provides occasional scoring in the low post. His primary role will be setting screens, finishing at the rim, and providing second-chance opportunities through offensive rebounds.
Locker Room Presence and Experience
Given his years of experience in the league, Len is also expected to bring veteran leadership to the Lakers’ locker room. This can be particularly beneficial for younger players like Colin Castleton and even some of the team’s wing players who rely on strong interior play to free up space on the perimeter.
The Lakers’ Playoff Aspirations
Current Standings and Outlook
As of the signing of Alex Len, the Lakers sit in fifth place in the Western Conference with a 32-19 record. They recently secured an impressive 132-113 victory over the Utah Jazz, marking Luka Doncic’s highly anticipated debut in a Lakers uniform.
With Len now part of the rotation, the Lakers hope to stabilize their frontcourt enough to maintain their standing in the competitive West. Their primary goal remains securing a top-four seed to ensure home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs.
Potential Future Moves
The Lakers could still look to make additional roster moves, particularly through the buyout market. Names like Bismack Biyombo and Tristan Thompson have been floated as potential additional reinforcements should the Lakers seek further depth at the center position.
The Lakers’ front-office maneuvering over the past few weeks has been nothing short of eventful. While missing out on Mark Williams was a significant setback, the team quickly pivoted to add Alex Len, ensuring they have at least some level of reinforcement at the center position.
Only time will tell how effective Len’s contributions will be, but for now, Lakers fans can rest assured that their team is actively addressing its needs as they push towards the playoffs. The road ahead remains challenging, but with key pieces like Luka Doncic leading the charge, the Lakers are still very much in the hunt for a deep postseason run.
