Lakers Eye Nets' Sharpe to Address Center Depth

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Wright | Last updated Jan 10, 2025 5:33 PM ET

LOS ANGELES - According to reports from ClutchPoints' Anthony Irwin, the Lakers continue to express interest in Brooklyn Nets center Day'Ron Sharpe as they look to bolster their frontcourt depth ahead of the trade deadline, league sources confirm.

Los Angeles originally showed interest in Sharpe during negotiations for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton, but Brooklyn indicated additional draft compensation would be required to include the young center in any deal. That said, the Lakers remain engaged in discussions for the 22-year-old big man, who's averaging 7.3 points and 6.1 rebounds in limited action this season.

Trading for Sharpe would help to provide support for Anthony Davis, who - although excelling as the starting center with averages of 25.8 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks - needs support if the Lakers are going to make a playoff push. Acquiring Sharpe would give the Lakers a shot-blocking presence off the bench, addressing a significant defensive drop-off when Davis rests.

While Dorian Finney-Smith has strengthened the team's perimeter defense, Shake Milton has struggled to crack the rotation. As such, sources indicate that the Lakers aren't done dealing, with playmaking help also needed following D'Angelo Russell's departure.

The franchise faces pressure to maximize LeBron James's remaining championship window, Sharpe could be an important piece of what could be a broader roster renovation as the Lakers aim to climb from their current position in the Western Conference standings and give LeBorn another look at the title.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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