The Los Angeles Lakers have opened a free agency that doesn’t show anything on their frontcourt shopping list.
A few hours later, their phone lines were lit with bad news from all directions.
Clint Capella agreed to join the Houston Rockets, Brooke Lopez was bolted to the Los Angeles Clippers, and Kevon Rooney decided to choose the New Orleans Pelican. Notable big names like Miles Turner prefer Milwaukee to Los Angeles.
This puts the Lakers in a difficult position. Because the market for big men is currently very limited. Reports say the only realistic option for the Lakers is Deandre Ayton.
However, recent reports say the Lakers tried to steal Al Horford, the Golden State Warriors’ target.
After joining a free agency with the Boston Celtics, Horford was linked to several teams. This is especially true as he can sign a minimum veteran contract.
Recently he has become a serious target for the Warriors as he is looking for something big they stretch before the Lakers get into conversation.
However, the news wasn’t well received by Lakers fans, but Horford averaged nine points and 6.2 rebounds last season, shooting 36.3% from the third inning.
“The Horfords have a terrible fit. They need a rim runner, not another three-point shooter,” he wrote.
“If it’s him and Ayton, if it’s him alone, another reaction.
The report also said the Lakers and the warriors signing the Horford may take some time.
Winning the Horford sweepstakes won’t silence all critics, but losing another center to a Pacific rival can boost the already unsettled fanbase.
The Warriors reportedly have other options in case they fail to take the former champion to San Francisco. Former player and longtime Toronto Raptor Chris Boucher is mentioned in the conversation.
Boucher may not be as big as Horford, but last season he averaged 3-pointers per game, shooting 36.3%.
Additionally, the Warriors are interested in bringing back former players Gary Payton II and DeAntony Melton. Both are good additions, providing depth and defensiveness.