Los Angeles Lakers: Buyout options better than Carmelo Anthony

By Jason Reed | Feb 11, 2019

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 27: Former New York Knicks Carmelo Anthony attends the game between the New York Knicks and the Miami Heat at Madison Square Garden on January 27, 2019 in New York City.NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

2 of 4

(Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

1. Enes Kanter, C

Enes Kanter was recently waived by the New York Knicks at the same time as Wesley Matthews, who has already found his new home with the Indiana Pacers. Kanter is yet to find a team and it appears that the Boston Celtics might have the most interest in the former Knick and Thunder center.

While the Los Angeles Lakers have not been drawn as a serious fit for Kanter, it would help the team to add a center after trading Ivica Zubac. Kanter is an upgrade from a pure talent standpoint than Zubac and would thrive alongside LeBron James, much like Zubac was starting to do as he embraced his role in LA.

That is one hurdle to get over though: Kanter and LeBron have infamously had a bit of a mini-feud and would have to get over that to play together. However, after putting LeBron on the same team as Lance Stephenson, I would not put it past the Lakers to get Kanter.

The one counter-argument to signing Kanter would be the entire purpose of the Zubac trade. Getting rid of Zubac just to sign another center might not be the smartest move, even though it is a talent upgrade for the Lakers.

Does signing Kanter make the Lakers better? Yes. Is it better than signing Carmelo Anthony? Absolutely. He should not be the top target but should be a target nonetheless.

Home/Los Angeles Lakers