The Los Angeles Lakers are heading into the playoffs with aspirations to make a deep run. Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves are clicking at the right time, and the team is as healthy as it has been in a long time. As things stand now, they have the fourth-best odds (+1700) to win the NBA championship per FanDuel Sportsbook.
Their biggest weakness will be their frontcourt rotation. Once the Lakers moved on from Anthony Davis at the trade deadline, they weren't able to fill the hole at center. They attempted to trade for Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets, but that move was rescinded after Williams failed his physical. Since that happened after the deadline, the Lakers had no choice but to turn to the free-agent market to add a big man.
Alex Len's Days in Los Angeles are Numbered as Playoffs Approach
So, they signed Alex Len, who had started the season with the Sacramento Kings. The Lakers were hoping for Len to give them size, physicality, and interior presence off the bench in limited minutes.
So far, he hasn't been able to do any of it. He has been slow defensively and inefficient offensively. As a result, he has fallen completely out of the rotation and hasn't played a minute since March 22. In his nine games in Los Angeles, Len has averaged 2 points and 3.2 rebounds on 44.4% shooting from the field in 12.1 minutes of action.
Now, head coach JJ Redick plays no other center besides Jaxson Hayes. The Lakers play extended minutes with small-ball lineups to avoid having to play Len. Despite the fact that the team desperately needs more size and rim protection, Len can't see the court, suggesting that his time in Los Angeles will come to an end once the playoffs come to an end.
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