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The LA Lakers coveted Myles Turner for the longest time before they altered their plans at the trade deadline. LA addressed their need for a stretch five by adding Orlando Magic's Mo Bamba in a buy-low trade. They centered the deal around veteran Patrick Beverley, who went the other way.
Turner and Bamba have similar skill sets, but the former has more experience and numbers to show. According to ESPN's Dave McMenamin, a Lakers source considers Bamba to be a "discount version" of Turner.
Mo Bamba has averaged 7.3 points and 1.0 blocks per game this season with the Orlando Magic. He is shooting at a career-high clip of 39.8% from 3-point range. The Lakers and Anthony Davis, in particular, will benefit from his addition.
Bamba is as solid as they come as a rim protector with his 7'0" frame. His shooting helps the Lakers space the floor but also remains efficient defensively. This allows Davis to attack the rim and commit to perimeter defense, giving the team a dynamic edge on both ends of the floor.
Myles Turner was among the LA Lakers' preferred choices before, but the Pacers' asking price was high. The Purple and Gold would've had to spend one of their two first-round picks on him alone, limiting their resources further to make other additions.
LA Lakers strengthen frontcourt at the trade deadline via affordable deals
The Lakers were among the winners at the trade deadline. Despite their lack of assets and draft compensation, LA added significant upgrades. Deals were centered around Russell Westbrook, Patrick Beverley and one of their two available first-round picks, which is lightly protected.
They added D'Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt and Malik Beasley in a three-team trade featuring the Jazz and Timberwolves. Mo Bamba came from the Magic in exchange for Beverley.
The Lakers now have much better depth, balance and quality than the roster they had to start the season. They addressed crucial needs to improve on both ends of the floor. One area they are likely to significantly improve on is their 3-point shooting with the new additions.
These additions compliment LeBron James and Anthony Davis' skill sets. The LA Lakers formed a roster like that in the 2019-20 season, and the superstar duo ensured the season ended with a championship win.
D'Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt and Malik Beasley debuted in the team's 109-103 win over the defending champions Golden State Warriors on the road. LeBron James was on the sidelines again due to a foot injury, but the comprehensive wins suggest the LA Lakers could go a long way with their new-look roster.
Guess the Lakers players!
