It seems that after landing Deandre Ayton, the Los Angeles Lakers have been content simply to sit back and hope for improvement. Adding former rival Marcus Smart was a wildcard move, but this was offset by the loss of valuable shooter and wing defender Dorian Finney-Smith. Losing the veteran to the Houston Rockets only makes the move harder. Still, there are possible upgrades remaining in the trade and free agent market.
In an unusually quiet NBA offseason, the Lakers have been at the top of the list of teams that should be doing more. One possible option remaining is another former rival and current free agent, Al Horford. The accomplished center is weighing retirement or what the future might hold. Los Angeles must attempt to talk the veteran into joining Smart in defecting to a rival.
Horford gives the Lakers more size off the bench and an experienced force who can still defend and score in short bursts. While Horford is still obviously aging, there is incredible value in having the center on any contending roster. This is why there is a long list of teams checking in on Horford, even with Boston wanting his return and the veteran being very open about his love for the franchise.
The Lakers Must Chase Free Agent Center Al Horford
Despite this, the Lakers would be a far better unit adding Horford to a center rotation that currently features only Ayton and the returning Jaxson Hayes. Bringing in Horford to this group gives you the ability to better feature Ayton and mix in a big lineup as needed. Ayton, James, Luka, and Horford can all be on the floor at the same time when Los Angeles needs size.
One would think that, due to last year's frustrating exit, the Lakers would understand the need to add more size inside and out. The Timberwolves bullied the Lakers, who were forced to use James at center and attempt to contend with a small lineup.
With this in mind, at least one noteworthy big must be added, and Horford perfectly fits. If the veteran opts to retire or sign elsewhere, the Lakers will be forced to explore the trade market. Tristan Thompson and Taj Gibson are the best remaining options, and neither is horribly enticing. Thompson was a solid depth option, but bringing back Hayes leaves the team needing a contributor to the rotation, not a liability when the games matter most.