NBA Trade Rumors: Center Additions Eyed by Lakers, Clippers, Bucks, Pelicans

Center's appear to be in high demand on the NBA trade market.

NBA insider Jake Fischer reported on The Stein Line that their is a "rather robust trade market" for centers and that teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Milwaukee Bucks and New Orleans Pelicans are all looking into available centers:

"So it should be no surprise, then, that there's a rather robust trade market coalescing for centers this winter. With many names and situations to monitor. The Lakers' interest in acquiring a center has been well-documented. Clippers coach Tyronn Lue has long desired a switchable reserve to complement Ivica Zubac, league sources say. Milwaukee has made calls to explore ways to add more of a lob threat to complement Brook Lopez, according to league sources, while the Bucks' incumbent center has generated no shortage of trade interest since last summer. In New Orleans, meanwhile, tremendous potential flashed by rookie center Yves Missi has not dimmed the Pelicans' desire to pursue potential additions to their frontcourt rotation if they are in any position to buy before this trade deadline."

The Lakers are currently 14-12 and sit in 10th place in the Western Conference. The depth at center is currently being tested as Anthony Davis is dealing with a day-to-day foot injury while Jaxon Hayes is out with a right ankle injury. Adding more depth at the position could allow Davis to switch to forward or give him some more rest while also taking a load off of Hayes as well as Christian Koloko and Armel Traore.

The Clippers are 15-12 and are ninth in the Western Conference. Ivica Zubac has been solid, averaging 14.9 points, 12.2 rebounds and 2.4 assists in 27 games However, the depth alongside Zubac has not been elite and adding another weapon in the front court could reduce his load and help the Clippers push forward in the Western Conference.

The Bucks are 14-11 and sit in fifth place in the Eastern Conference. Milwaukee is fresh off a NBA Cup Championship and center Brook Lopez holds down the center position. When the Bucks had a difficult start to the season, he looked like a potential trade chip. Now that the team has rattled off several wins, bringing in depth alongside him and forward Giannis Antetokounmpo is appealing.

The Pelicans have had a rough season and are currently 5-22. However, rookie Yves Missi has been a bright spot and has averaged 9.2 points, 8.5 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 26 games. Adding depth alongside him could aid his development and help the team as it rebuilds.

The NBA Trade Deadline is Feb. 6, 2025.