The LA Lakers were named as a possible suitor for Orlando Magic big man Mo Bamba. The latest rumors suggest that the Magic could make Bamba available for trade before the February 9 deadline.
Jake Fischer of Yahoo! Sports reported on Wednesday that several Magic players are potential trade candidates. Fischer named Bamba, Terrence Ross and R.J. Hampton as the team's trade assets. He even called Bamba as the Magic's greatest trade chip.
The former lottery pick could interest a handful of teams, including the Lakers. They will be without Anthony Davis for at least a month due to a foot injury and will need someone to replace his production.
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Mo Bamba is coming off a career year last season, averaging 10.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.7 blocks per game. He has regressed this season, averaging just 8.2 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.1 assists.
There are many reasons why Bamba's production has diminished this season. His playing time has always been inconsistent due to rookie Paolo Banchero and the emergence of Bol Bol and Moritz Wagner.
Bamba may not be as gifted offensively as Anthony Davis, but he could provide stabiliy to their defense. He's one of the best shot blockes in the league and would help ease Davis' absence.
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LA Lakers' Anthony Davis injury update
Anthony Davis will miss about a month after suffering a right foot injury on Friday against the Denver Nuggets, per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. The LA Lakers have been very vague about details on Davis' injury.
On "The Hoop Collective" podcast, Brian Windorst of ESPN pointed out the vague reporting of the LA Lakers on Davis' injury. Windhorst said that Davis might be out of for a long period and that his injury could be a serious one.
"He's not gonna be out a game or two," Windhorst said. He's gonna be out an extended period. Hopefully, it's an injury he can get some treatment on and get it healed. It's not good; it's not a sprained ankle; it's not a sprained foot. From what I understand, it's something more concerning than that."
Apart from Mo Bamba, the Lakers were also linked with another Magic player. Yahoo! Sports' Jake Fishcer reported that the Lakers are interested in Terrence Ross. The former Slam Dunk champion can score in bunches and could be perfect as the team's sixth man.
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