With a new head coach in JJ Redick, a revamped roster, and a need for some trade-deadline acquisitions, the Los Angeles Lakers are undergoing a period of significant change.
Throughout the entire season, the Los Angeles Lakers have been rumored to be interested in trading for top-tier centers. Anthony Davis is a dominant big man when healthy, but the team’s reliance on him in the frontcourt is concerning, and he could benefit from some help.
Now, per Bovada Official, the Lakers are the favorites to land Zion Williamson if the Pelicans decide to trade him. The Lakers stand at +600, Houston at +750, and the Clippers at +850.
Zion Williamson’s Injury Woes: A Red Flag Los Angeles Lakers?
While he’s a two-time NBA All-Star and undoubtedly a gifted player, it’s unfortunate that injuries have become the defining aspect of his career. Despite his five seasons in the NBA, he has only played 190 games.
Williamson, who was averaging 22.7 points, 8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game in the early stages of the 2024-25 NBA season, has unfortunately fallen victim to another injury. He injured his left hamstring in the Pelicans’ loss to Cleveland last week, marking a recurring pattern of setbacks for the talented player. Now, the Pelicans announced that he is out indefinitely.
ESPN’s Shams Charania says the team will reassess him in the coming weeks based on his rehab.
“The Pelicans are bracing for him to be out about 4-6 weeks,” Charania said. “His return will be based on rehab and how that treatment goes… They said indefinitely. They are not sure exactly how long this rehab will take him.”
Is Trading For Zion Williamson The Right Move?
The Lakers are indeed in a transformative phase, but a trade for Zion Williamson doesn’t necessarily align with their needs, especially when you consider his durability issues and the financial implications.
Zion has shown his abilities to be a top player, but he’s spent more time on the sidelines than on the court, which would be a risky gamble for a team trying to contend right now.
Also Read: Lakers In The Market For An All-Star Guard?
Taking on Williamson’s contract, which runs through the 2026-27 season, would add a significant cap hit—around $44 million per year starting next season—limiting the Lakers’ flexibility for future signings.
With a new coach and a need for consistent support for Davis, the Lakers may be better off pursuing a player who provides steadiness on the court, allowing them to build depth and maintain flexibility. Trading for Williamson may not be the wisest choice if the Lakers want to sustain long-term contention rather than a quick, high-risk solution.