Orlando Magic Receive: F Talen Horton-Tucker, G Kendrick Nunn, F Stanley Johnson, 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: C Mo Bamba
If you’ve been a fan of any team featuring Russell Westbrook over the last several years, you’ve likely reached a similar conclusion: this man needs a floor-spacing big man by his side.
After all, Westbrook’s own jump shot is shaky at best. Still, his ability to penetrate into the lane for either a layup or a pass to an open teammate remains strong. Having a big man camped on the perimeter opens up driving lanes that he needs to be at his best.
Mo Bamba would help with that cause. Furthermore, his rim protection would allow Anthony Davis to return to his previous role as a free safety on defense. The Los Angeles Lakers return to the twin towers formation that won them the 2019-20 championship, only this time, both bigs can stretch the floor.
As for the Magic, this is a good return for a player they’re likely to part with anyway. Bamba’s time with this organization seems to have expired.
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While Horton-Tucker was underwhelming with the Lakers last year, the Magic could still see some upside in him at 21. It would certainly benefit the Lakers if they did.
