Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Lakers’ Andre Drummond ‘got in best shape possible’ during downtime

Originally posted on FortyEightMinutes | By Sam Amico | Last updated 3/31/21

Andre Drummond is set to make his debut with the Los Angeles Lakers and said his body is ready for the long run ahead.

“I’ve used this time off to get in the best shape possible,” Drummond said, via ESPN Los Angeles. “I’ve lost 10-15 lbs. I’m ready to play today.”

Drummond arrived in LA following a contract buyout with the Cleveland Cavaliers last week. The Cavs kept him on the sideline for more than a month. He hasn’t played in a game since Feb. 12.

All of that is expected to change Wednesday night, when Drummond makes his Lakers debut vs. the Milwaukee Bucks.

Of course, the Lakers are still without injured stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis. And Drummond will need some time to adjust to his new surroundings — then again when James and Davis return.

But he suspects things will be in full gear once the defending champions are healthy and the playoffs finally arrive.

“I think our defense is going to be really crazy when those guys come back,” Drummond told reporters. “And I’m looking forward to it.”

He added that he has no shortage of motivation.

“It’s been almost a month [and] 10-plus days since I last played. You can imagine the hunger and excitement I have to play and step on the court,” he said. “I had an incredible month of work where I’m ready to play today.”