Rumor: Hassan Whiteside to the LA Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers continue to look for another solution at center after the Marc Gasol experiment doesn't appear to be working. One name to keep an eye on is Hassan Whiteside of the Sacramento Kings.

Report: Hassan Whiteside is ‘potential target’ for Lakers to pursue https://t.co/4FnMzpykJS

— NBA Central (@TheNBACentral) February 23, 2021

The 31-year-old Whiteside is a pending free-agent, making $2.3 million this season. In 23 games so far this season with the Kings, the big-man is averaging 8.3 points, 5.7 rebounds and is shooting 58% from the field. The Lakers would love to add his rebounding ability and his rim protection as he's certainly built of a different make up than Gasol, who is a perimeter big-man who happens to be a tremendous passer of the basketball.

The Lakers recently waived Quinn Cook and opened up a roster spot. They have also kept their eye on Andre Drummond of the Cleveland Cavaliers as the Cavs can't seem to find a trade partner and are likely going to buy Drummond out. The Lakers and the Nets appear to be favorites to sign the potential free-agent.

The Lakers aren't done tweaking their roster before the playoffs so expect to see them make a move or two over the next week. The shot-blocking Whiteside makes a ton of sense for the defending champs.

Photo credit: © Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports 

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