LA Lakers Rumors: Top 3 potential candidates who can fill in for Mo Bamba as center for Purple & Gold

The LA Lakers have suffered another injury as sources have confirmed that Mo Bamba will miss the rest of the regular season due to an ankle injury. Besides Bamba, LeBron James is also out of the lineup due to injury, which is slowly decreasing their chances of making the postseason.

The Lakers (32-34) are in the ninth spot in the Western Conference, which would have them participating in the play-in tournament if the season ended today. However, they'll need additional reinforcement to be able to beat the other teams trying to secure a playoff spot.

Three centers can aid their need for rim protection and possibly provide another option offensively. This move could help Anthony Davis focus more on the offense and be an effective leader on that end. Here are three centers the front office should consider signing.

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DeMarcus Cousins

Memphis Grizzlies vs. Denver Nuggets

DeMarcus Cousins has not played for an NBA team since last season. He last played for the Denver Nuggets, suiting up 31 times for them after playing 17 games for the Milwaukee Bucks. With the Nuggets, Cousins averaged 8.9 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.7 assists while making 45.6%, including 32.4% from beyond the arc.

Adding the four-time All-Star could bring another offensive weapon to the team. His ability to create shots for himself and his teammates could be valuable.

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Hassan Whiteside

Like Cousins, Hassan Whiteside hasn't been with an NBA team since last season. The Utah Jazz were the most recent team to play Whiteside, and he had a solid run as the backup center for Rudy Gobert, participating in 65 games. With only 17 minutes of playing time, Whiteside maximized his opportunities and averaged 8.2 ppg and 7.6 rpg.

Aside from his rebounding and interior offensive presence, the two-time block champion averaged 1.6 blocks off the bench. His defense can elevate the interior defense that Bamba provides for the LA Lakers.

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Tony Bradley

Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Chicago Bulls

If the LA Lakers are looking for someone who recently had a run with an NBA team this season, they should consider signing Tony Bradley. The 25-year-old played 12 games for the Chicago Bulls this season before getting waived on Feb. 21. Bradley is a capable role player who will do enough to protect the rim.

Los Angeles could use a center like Bradley, as he's a hardworker. Additionally, he's willing to do the dirty work underneath the basket.