Lakers Linked to Signing of 76ers Free Agent Center

The Los Angeles Lakers made yet another move on Friday that paves the way for them to potentially sign a Philadelphia 76ers free agent.

The Lakers are sending center Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Jaden Hardy and two second-round picks in 2031 and 2032, per ESPN's Shams Charania.

Charania followed up that post by linking Los Angeles to 76ers big man and free agent Andre Drummond.

"The Lakers will now focus on finding Walker Kessler's backup on the market -- with centers such as Andre Drummond, Jonas Valanciunas and Kevon Looney among those being considered, sources said," Charania wrote.

Kessler is the Lakers' big addition this offseason, as they gave up a plethora of assets for him and then signed him to a lucrative extension. Finding a proper backup to him is crucial to Los Angeles' success next season.

Drummond is almost certain to depart from Philadelphia after the 76ers signed former New York Knicks center and NBA champion Ariel Hukporti. Chances are Hukporti and Adem Bona will share the backup role to superstar Joel Embiid.

Drummond is more talented than both even at age 32, so it will be a bit of a downgrade for the Sixers.

He averaged 6.4 points and 8.4 rebounds on 47.2% shooting in 63 games for the 76ers last season. The two-time All-Star remains one of the league's top rebounder while also adding a developing three-point shot to his offensive arsenal. He may no longer be the Detroit Pistons version of himself, but that doesn't mean he can't still contribute to a championship contender.

76ers fans can attest that the Lakers will be landing a reliable center in Drummond if that's the route they decide to take.

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