Lakers Eye Myles Turner as Anthony Davis Pushes for Another Big Man Before Trade Deadline

As the NBA trade deadline approaches, the Los Angeles Lakers are once again at the center of trade rumors, with speculation surrounding a potential move for Myles Turner. After recently acquiring Dorian Finney-Smith in late December, the Lakers now have their sights set on bolstering their frontcourt, with Turner reportedly emerging as a key target.

According to Lakers reporter Jovan Buha, if Turner becomes available, the Lakers should seriously pursue him: “If Myles Turner is available, I think if you’re the Lakers, you have to go get him because he just fits perfectly next to AD on both sides of the floor.” Buha even suggested that Turner could be a more ideal fit than Utah’s Walker Kessler, underscoring the strong interest the Lakers have in Turner’s skill set.

Turner is in the final year of his contract with the Indiana Pacers after signing a two-year, $40.9 million extension before the 2023-24 season, making him an unrestricted free agent after this season. With his free agency looming, the Pacers may look to trade Turner at the deadline for assets rather than risk losing him for nothing.

The Lakers are keeping a close eye on Turner’s situation as the February 6 trade deadline approaches. A trade for Turner could provide the Lakers with the big man they need to complement Anthony Davis and address their frontcourt concerns.

Anthony Davis Pushes for Another Big Man

In a recent interview, Anthony Davis made it clear that he believes the Lakers need another center to strengthen their roster. Davis, who has spent much of his career as a power forward, cited his success during the Lakers’ 2020 championship run when he played alongside centers JaVale McGee and Dwight Howard.

“I think we need another big, I feel like I’ve always been at my best when I’ve been the 4 (power forward) and having another big out there,” Davis said in a conversation with ESPN’s Shams Charania. “We know it worked when we won the championship with JaVale (McGee) and Dwight (Howard) at the 5 and I’m at the 4.”

Davis’ desire for another big man on the roster could further fuel the Lakers’ pursuit of Turner, who brings both size and defensive prowess to the table. With the February 6 deadline fast approaching, all eyes are on whether the Lakers and Pacers can strike a deal to address Davis’ wish for another big presence in the paint.

As the clock ticks down to the trade deadline, the Lakers’ front office, led by Rob Pelinka, will undoubtedly be exploring all avenues to make a deal happen and strengthen their title-contending squad.