The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly not pursuing Nikola Vucevic or Jakob Poeltl ahead of the February 6 NBA trade deadline, according to insider Marc Stein. This decision comes amidst growing speculation that the Lakers could target a center to complement Anthony Davis and address roster depth. However, it appears the team is opting against acquiring these big men, despite their strong performances this season.
Both Vucevic and Poeltl have been notable contributors for their respective teams. Vucevic, currently with the Chicago Bulls, is averaging an impressive 20.1 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game while shooting 55.5% from the field and 40.6% from beyond the arc.
His offensive versatility and rebounding make him a valuable asset. However, his $20 million salary this season and the additional year left on his contract present financial challenges for any team considering him.
Poeltl, playing for the Toronto Raptors, offers a different skill set, excelling as a defensive anchor and a rebounding force. He is averaging 14.5 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 2.6 assists while shooting an efficient 61.5% from the field. Poeltl’s $19.5 million salary this season, coupled with two more years on his $78 million contract, could be another deterrent for the Lakers.
Despite their strengths, neither player fits the Lakers’ immediate plans. According to Stein, the team is focused on other options, such as their long-standing interest in Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler. However, Kessler is reportedly close to untouchable, with the Jazz rejecting multiple offers for the young center.
Anthony Davis has been vocal about the need for a true center to play alongside him, allowing him to shift to his preferred position at power forward. In a recent interview with Shams Charania, Davis emphasized the importance of replicating the formula that led to the Lakers’ 2020 championship, when JaVale McGee and Dwight Howard played pivotal roles as traditional centers.
Davis’s statement underscores his belief that the Lakers’ roster, as currently constructed, could benefit from additional size and defensive presence in the paint. However, the front office appears hesitant to commit to Vucevic or Poeltl, likely due to concerns about long-term salary commitments and fit.
While Davis continues to dominate this season with averages of 25.9 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game, the Lakers’ focus remains on maintaining flexibility and pursuing trades that align with their long-term strategy. Vucevic’s and Poeltl’s contracts may not provide the financial or strategic flexibility the Lakers are seeking.
Instead, the team may explore other options closer to the deadline. Myles Turner, a long-time Lakers target, could re-emerge as a potential candidate due to his own contract uncertainties with the Indiana Pacers. Alternatively, the Lakers could stand pat, relying on Davis’s versatility and the current roster to continue their strong season, which has them in the playoff mix with a 25-18 record.
The Lakers’ reported disinterest in Nikola Vucevic and Jakob Poeltl reflects a calculated approach to the trade deadline. While both players could address specific needs, their contracts and potential fit with the team do not align with the Lakers’ priorities.
As the deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the Lakers to see if they make a significant move or maintain their current roster in pursuit of championship contention.
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