General manager Rob Pelinka needed to get to work upgrading the roster of the Los Angeles Lakers ahead of the NBA trade deadline. They have been one of the most active teams making deals, as their fourth one in the last was completed Thursday afternoon.
The Lakers have agreed to a deal with the Orlando Magic that will land center Mo Bamba in Los Angeles. This is in exchange for point guard Patrick Beverley. The Magic are also going to receive some second-round draft compensation as well as part of the deal.
Bamba should slide right into the Lakers’ rotation in place of Thomas Bryant. Who was traded earlier to the Denver Nuggets in exchange for Davon Reed and three second-round picks. Moreover He will be joining a frontcourt that has been revamped. As the Lakers also acquired Rui Hachimura and Jarred Vanderbilt in two separate deals recently.
On the season, Bamba is averaging 7.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 1.0 blocks in 17 minutes per game. He is a great fit for this roster given his rim protection and 3-point shooting ability. He is connecting on a career-high 39.8 percent of his 3-point attempts this season.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mo Bamba, Orlando Magic & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
The Texas product re-signed with the Magic this past offseason, agreeing to a two-year $20.6 million contract. Having him in the fold for next season at a reasonable $10.3 million is something that likely appealed to the Lakers. Not only is he a fit for the roster, but he can be used in a trade package to match salaries.
For Beverley, there is a good chance that he never suits up for the Magic. While they could use some veteran leadership and a floor spacer in the backcourt.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mo Bamba, Orlando Magic & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
He will likely ask for a buyout to hit the open market. It would be hard to find minutes for him with the team already developing Cole Anthony and Jalen Suggs behind Markelle Fultz.
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