THE Los Angeles Lakers I’ve had a gap within the backup middle for a while. Jaxson Hayes is their major backup middle, however he would not have the dimensions, energy and physicality they actually need behind Anthony Davis, though he can present power and rim safety at occasions.
To make issues worse, Hayes has been out for many of the final month with an ankle harm. Christian Koloko, a 2022 second-round choose that Los Angeles signed to a two-way deal over the summer season, has proven promise at occasions, however he is removed from the reply on the fifth spot.
Koloko grabbed six rebounds and blocked two pictures Friday’s defeat to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Lakers followers needed Davis to play on the 4 alongside a real middle, however head coach JJ Redick mentioned he would not run such a lineup with Koloko and even Hayes. through Value Khobi from the Southern California Information Group.
“It’s not a very good resolution,” Redick mentioned. “And admittedly, I do not assume it is an ideal match for Jaxson both. We’re actually inspired by Rui’s development. [Hachimura] had. What if it is LeBron [James] or Rui enjoying foursome with Jaxson or Koloko, we favor that. »
When the Lakers received the NBA championship in 2020, Davis performed a number of minutes on the 4 with JaVale McGee and Dwight Howard manning the 5 place. There have been a number of rumors that they want to commerce for a real middle like Jonas Valanciunas or Walker Kessler so as to maintain issues going whereas Davis rests, nevertheless it stays to be seen if they will purchase a middle who may also adapt offensively. alongside Davis in the identical formation.
This text was initially printed on LeBron Wire: JJ Redick wonders if he’ll play Anthony Davis and Christian Koloko collectively
