Lakers want former Celtics center, but Rockets have upper hand to acquire him
The Los Angeles Lakers need to acquire a center, a statement that makes anyone saying it sound like a broken record.
Anthony Davis sat down with ESPN’s Shams Charania last week and reminded everyone (looking at you, Rob Pelinka) that he’s more effective playing power forward.
Not only does LA need a rim-protecting center in general, but snagging a quality five-man before the Feb. 6 trade deadline would also unlock a more potent Davis.
So what is Pelinka waiting for? The market to reveal itself, most likely.
Among Pelinka’s most talented targets at center is former Boston Celtics stud Robert Williams III.
But according to a new report from Forbes’ Evan Sidery, Pelinka and the Lakers aren’t the only team going after Williams.
“Robert Williams is generating a strong market from title-contending teams in the Western Conference,” Sidery said.
“The Lakers, Nuggets and Rockets have all recently expressed interest in trading for Williams.”
“Williams is averaging 5.8 points and 1.7 blocks this season for the Trail Blazers.”
The Rockets are a particularly dangerous threat to steal away Williams from the Lakers. Houston’s head coach Ime Udoka has a good relationship with Williams after coaching him on the Celtics. The Rockets also have way more trade assets to offer than the Lakers.
If LA somehow pulls off a deal for Williams, it would be enormous for them moving forward this season. When he’s healthy, Williams can be one of the most impactful defenders in the NBA. He’s also an elite lob threat whom gifted passers like LeBron James and Austin Reaves would be able to rack up assists throwing to.
As the NBA trade deadline approaches on February 6, 2025, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Houston Rockets are reportedly interested in acquiring a former Boston Celtics center to bolster their rosters. While specific details about the player in question are scarce, both teams are actively seeking to strengthen their frontcourt depth.
Lakers’ Pursuit of Frontcourt Reinforcements
The Lakers, currently holding a 23-18 record and sitting sixth in the Western Conference, have shown a modest improvement from the previous season. However, franchise stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis have expressed concerns about the team’s championship prospects without significant roster enhancements. Recent reports indicate that both players are losing hope that the team can make a substantial trade to boost their title chances. The Lakers recently traded D’Angelo Russell for Dorian Finney-Smith, a move that surprised many but is seen as insufficient by James and Davis. The team’s management, led by Rob Pelinka, is under pressure to utilize their two tradeable first-round picks to secure impactful additions before the trade deadline.
Rockets’ Advantage in the Trade Market
The Houston Rockets, on the other hand, have been actively showcasing their young talent and may have a competitive edge in trade negotiations. In a recent game against the Boston Celtics, rookie Amen Thompson delivered a career-high 33 points, including a game-winning floater with 1.3 seconds left, leading the Rockets to a 114-112 victory. Dillon Brooks also contributed significantly, scoring a career-high 36 points with 10 three-pointers. These performances highlight the depth and potential of the Rockets’ roster, which could make them a more attractive trade partner.
Potential Targets and Trade Scenarios
While the specific former Celtics center being targeted has not been publicly identified, several possibilities exist based on recent player movements and team needs. One potential candidate is Al Horford, who has had multiple stints with the Celtics and is known for his veteran presence and versatility. However, Horford is currently a key part of the Celtics’ rotation, and it’s unclear if Boston would be willing to part with him.
Another possibility is Enes Freedom (formerly Enes Kanter), who has played for the Celtics in the past and is currently a free agent. Freedom’s rebounding and scoring abilities could provide the interior presence both the Lakers and Rockets are seeking.
The Lakers’ need for a reliable center stems from their desire to reduce the physical burden on Anthony Davis, allowing him to play more at his natural power forward position. The Rockets, conversely, are looking to add veteran experience to complement their young core and enhance their competitiveness in the Western Conference.
Challenges and Considerations
The Lakers face several challenges in their pursuit of a trade. Their limited draft capital and salary cap constraints make it difficult to assemble an enticing package for potential trade partners. Additionally, the team’s recent performance has raised questions about their ability to contend for a championship without significant roster improvements.
The Rockets, with a wealth of young assets and a more flexible cap situation, may have the upper hand in negotiations. Their recent victories against strong opponents like the Celtics demonstrate their potential and could make them a more appealing destination for players seeking a competitive environment.
As the trade deadline approaches, both the Lakers and Rockets are actively exploring options to acquire a former Celtics center to strengthen their rosters. While the Lakers are driven by the urgency to maximize the championship window of their aging superstars, the Rockets aim to add experience to their promising young lineup. The outcome of these pursuits will significantly impact the dynamics of the Western Conference as the season progresses.
