The Lakers, Heat, and Knicks are among the teams interested in free-agent center Nick Richards, who could join a contender on a veteran-minimum deal.
The Los Angeles Lakers continue to explore ways to strengthen their frontcourt despite already making several additions this offseason.
According to NBA reporter Evan Sidery, the Lakers are among the teams showing interest in free-agent center Nick Richards.
The Miami Heat and New York Knicks have also expressed interest in the 28-year-old.
Richards is considered one of the best remaining centers on the open market and is reportedly prepared to join a contender on a veteran-minimum contract.
Richards could add more size to Lakers' frontcourt
Richards would give Los Angeles another traditional center capable of protecting the rim, finishing around the basket and contributing on the glass.
Richards was selected with the 42nd pick in the 2020 NBA Draft and spent his first four-plus seasons with the Charlotte Hornets before later playing for the Phoenix Suns and Chicago Bulls.
The 6-foot-11 center has averaged 7.1 points and 5.8 rebounds across 305 career NBA games, including 5.8 points and 5.1 rebounds per game last season.
The Lakers have already acquired Walker Kessler and signed three-time NBA champion Kevon Looney, while Sandro Mamukelashvili can also play center in smaller lineups.
Adding Richards would create a crowded center rotation, but it would also provide the Lakers with additional depth, physicality and injury insurance behind Kessler.
Credit AP - Scanpix
Lakers would need to create roster opening
Los Angeles currently has all 15 standard roster spots occupied after signing Ziaire Williams to a one-year, $3 million contract.
As a result, the Lakers would need to waive or trade a player before completing another signing.
Richards' willingness to accept the veteran's minimum would make the financial side of a potential agreement relatively straightforward.
According to The Athletic, the Lakers are still monitoring the market for another center despite already adding Kessler and Looney.
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