Lakers rumors: How would LA look if they draft Lonzo Ball?
By Keith Rivas
Center
Starter: Tarik Black | Bench: Ivica Zubac
This seems like one of the easier positions for the Lakers to fill, despite not getting DeMarcus Cousins. Although Los Angeles had the chance to acquire him, they refused to let go of Brandon Ingram.
That speaks volumes about how this front office views not just Ingram, but also the players they have at that position currently.
Black has been a huge blessing, even if he is averaging just six points and five rebounds per game. Mozgov, whom Black recently replaced, has season averages of seven points and five rebounds.
The single point difference between these two isn’t the biggest thing when thinking long term. It’s how they play, but also how much they’re getting paid to play.
Players who will make more this year than Steph Curry: Timofey Mozgov, Chandler Parsons, John Henson & Bismack Biyombo.
— Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell) February 20, 2017
Los Angeles decided in the off-season that Mozgov was worth throwing $16 million at. Instead of getting the seasoned, contributing veteran that they thought they were getting, they’re stuck with a player that won’t necessarily grow well with the team’s young core.
Black, on the other hand can thrive in that role.
As for Zubac, he’s still in his rookie season but looks to be learning quickly. Having him and Black be a 1-2 punch could be dangerous next season.
Lastly, they should release Mozgov at the end of the season and pay for their mistake financially instead of otherwise.