Lakers Reportedly Focused on Securing Strong Center This Summer

It's not a question that the Los Angeles Lakers will improve their center spot at some point in the offseason.

The question is...who will the player be?

Lakers insider Anthony Irwin of ClutchPoints recently indicated that a host of centers are being considered by the franchise, whether via trade or free agency. Most of the players being listed are veterans, though a few would also be considered to be young, valuable assets only acquirable through some sort of deal.

Many of the names — which include Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton, Portland Trail Blazers big man Robert Williams III, Utah post player Walker Kessler, Clint Capela, and Brook Lopez — are all players who've been rampantly associated with the team since losing to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the NBA playoffs.

Claxton and Kessler, on the surface, would be the most attractive options. These are the two youngest players being rumored. Claxton is a better athlete, rim-runner, and possesses a more adept ability to switch in pick-and-roll situations. On the other hand, Kessler is an elite finisher at the rim. He's also one of the best shot-blocking forces in basketball today.