When the Los Angeles Lakers shockingly acquired Luka Doncic last February, the question immediately became how were they going to build around him.
Doncic was coming from a roster in Dallas that was perfect for his playstyle and one that was coming off an NBA Finals appearance. When Doncic extended with LA last summer, the expectation was that this offseason would be the time for the Lakers to build a championship-level team.
LA has been in trade rumors and working the phones for wing and center upgrades. They also have the 25th overall pick in the draft on Tuesday night. With the offseason really set to heat up soon, the Lakers should be swinging for the fences and there is one target that comes to mind.
LA should swoop in and steal Jalen Duren away from Detroit
Duren had a breakout season that led to his first All-Star appearance and an All-NBA third team selection. He was one of the most dominant paint forces in the league and was a huge reason why the Pistons earned the first seed in the East.
However, the young big man absolutely crumbled during the postseason, averaging a measly ten points per game and nine rebounds, way down from his near 20/10 average during the regular season.
It has led to questions about whether or not Duren should get a big contract in free agency, with reports that the Pistons are willing to pay him, but not at the full max he is eligible for. This is where the Lakers come in.
LA is set to have a ton of cap space this summer, so they can afford Duren’s services outright. Additionally, he would be the perfect pick and roll partner for Doncic, thanks to his athleticism and strength.
He also would not be asked to do a lot offensively, as with Detroit, he was expected to be the second option most nights next to Cade Cunningham. Should Austin Reaves be retained, Duren would be the the third option on most nights, and could even share those duties if LeBron James returns.
Duren would be the meaningful center upgrade the Lakers have been looking for and is only 22 years old. He grew in a lot of different ways last season and even with the subpar playoffs, he still has a very high ceiling. Doncic is known to get the most out of any big he plays with and Duren would be the most talented center he has played with by far.
If LA wants to show their new superstar that they are serious about contention, then signing Duren would be a solid start. Getting him at the right price is key, but if the number makes sense, the Lakers should pounce.
