Gone Again! Lakers Miss Out on a New Center, Leaving Anthony Davis in Limbo

In a thrilling Christmas Day matchup, the Los Angeles Lakers edged out the Golden State Warriors 115-113. However, the victory came with a scare as Anthony Davis, the team’s cornerstone big man, rolled his ankle just seven minutes into the game. He finished with an uncharacteristic stat line: 2 rebounds, 1 steal, and zero points. Fortunately for Lakers fans, Davis himself confirmed that the injury is minor and that he plans to play in the team’s next game against the Sacramento Kings.

Davis’ resilience this season has been commendable. He has missed just one game so far, averaging 25.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.3 steals, and 2.1 blocks per game on 52% shooting. These numbers not only make him the team leader in points, rebounds, and steals but also highlight his ability to dominate on both ends of the floor. Davis has carried an immense load for the Lakers, stepping up night after night as the team’s anchor.

However, even a player as dedicated as Davis can only bear so much. His injury history is well-documented, and expecting him to continue shouldering such a heavy burden without relief could lead to more serious issues. Many around the league have suggested that the Lakers need to add a true center—a physical presence in the paint who can take on the brunt of the defensive and rebounding workload. Doing so would allow Davis to shift back to his preferred power forward position, reducing his physical toll and extending his longevity.

Missed Opportunity: The Jonas Valančiūnas Saga

One name that has repeatedly come up as a potential solution for the Lakers is Washington Wizards center Jonas Valančiūnas. At 6-foot-11 and 265 pounds, the Lithuanian big man fits the mold of the ideal interior enforcer the Lakers desperately need. Valančiūnas, now 32 years old, signed a three-year, $30.3 million contract with the Wizards this past offseason. So far this season, he has played 27 games (starting seven) and is averaging 11.6 points, 7.9 rebounds (including 2.3 offensive boards), and 2.2 assists in just 19.7 minutes per game while shooting an efficient 55% from the field.

Despite his relatively modest playing time, Valančiūnas has demonstrated remarkable efficiency and productivity, showcasing his ability to make an impact as either a starter or a key reserve. His combination of size, rebounding, and scoring touch around the basket makes him an invaluable asset—especially for a team like the Lakers, which lacks depth in the frontcourt. At a salary just north of $10 million annually, Valančiūnas is an incredible value in today’s NBA, where quality big men often command far higher paychecks.

Reports surfaced earlier this month suggesting that the Lakers were in talks to acquire Valančiūnas. According to team insiders, the deal was initially expected to materialize quickly, mirroring the Warriors’ recent trade for Dennis Schröder from the Brooklyn Nets. However, as days turned into weeks, the Lakers’ front office failed to make any concrete moves, and the potential deal began to fizzle.

Why the Deal Fell Apart

Recent analysis from Lakers beat writer Jovan Buha sheds some light on the situation. Buha reported that the Lakers had the opportunity to acquire Valančiūnas roughly ten days ago. However, the lack of urgency from the front office allowed the situation to deteriorate. Meanwhile, other contenders like the Denver Nuggets and Phoenix Suns have reportedly expressed interest in Valančiūnas, further complicating matters.

Adding to the uncertainty is the Wizards’ changing stance on Valančiūnas. Initial reports suggested that Washington was open to moving the veteran center, viewing him as a valuable trade chip to accelerate their rebuild. However, recent rumors indicate that the Wizards are now considering keeping Valančiūnas long-term. The franchise reportedly values his leadership and believes he can play a crucial role in mentoring their younger players.

The Lakers’ Trade Market Woes

This missed opportunity has only added to the Lakers’ reputation as the NBA’s “most interested team.” Time and again, Los Angeles has been linked to high-profile trade targets, only to fall short due to hesitation or lack of follow-through. From Buddy Hield to Myles Turner and now Valančiūnas, the Lakers’ front office seems paralyzed by indecision, often leaving fans and analysts alike questioning their strategy.

The inability to secure Valančiūnas is especially frustrating given the Lakers’ glaring need for a reliable center. While players like Christian Wood and Jaxson Hayes have shown flashes of potential, neither has proven capable of consistently alleviating the workload on Davis. The team’s reluctance to make a decisive move could ultimately come back to haunt them as the grind of the regular season wears on.

The Cost of Inaction

For now, Davis continues to soldier on, putting up MVP-caliber numbers despite constant physical challenges. However, the long-term risks of over-relying on him are undeniable. Without additional frontcourt reinforcements, the Lakers risk burning out their star player before the postseason even begins.

Meanwhile, Valančiūnas appears increasingly likely to land elsewhere. If a team like the Nuggets or Suns swoops in and acquires him, the Lakers will not only miss out on a much-needed upgrade but also watch as one of their rivals strengthens its roster.

What’s Next for the Lakers?

As the February trade deadline approaches, the pressure is mounting on the Lakers’ front office to make a move. While Valančiūnas may no longer be an option, other big men could still become available. Whether it’s through a trade or the buyout market, the Lakers must act decisively to address their roster’s glaring deficiencies.

For Anthony Davis, the clock is ticking. The Lakers’ star has done everything in his power to keep the team competitive, but he can’t do it alone. If Los Angeles hopes to maximize their championship window, they must surround Davis with the support he needs—starting with a dependable center who can anchor the paint. Until then, all fans can do is hope that Davis’ remarkable durability this season continues to defy the odds.