The Los Angeles Lakers were derailed leading to the midseason break due to the injury situation of star big man Anthony Davis. It's unclear just when Davis will be back, and the Lakers are looking for an upgrade in the frontcourt to help with their star out and when he returns.
There have been mixed messages regarding a potential return of DeMarcus Cousins to the franchise. Contrary to another report, The Ringer's Kevin O'Connor reported Monday that L.A. still has interest in Cousins. However, the Lakers would prefer to acquire Andre Drummond after a potential Cleveland Cavaliers buyout.
The New York Times' Marc Stein added more context to the Drummond rumor:
There is optimism within the Lakers that they will get strong consideration from Andre Drummond if Drummond ultimately leaves the Cavaliers via buyout, league sources say.
Cleveland’s preference, of course, remains trading Drummond elsewhere before the March 25 trade deadline.
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) March 8, 2021
Despite the Cavs' preference, they will most likely have a hard time finding a suitable trade partner due to Drummond's lucrative $28.8 million salary, per O'Connor. There are plenty of teams, like the Lakers, interested in Drummond after a buyout, but a trade is a whole different story. That salary makes it difficult to match, and suitors likely don't want to give up too much in terms of assets for a player who's set to be an unrestricted free agent this offseason.
Drummond hasn't played since Feb. 12 against the Portland Trail Blazers. Both the player's camp and the team have already agreed that he will not see any action on the floor until a trade or a buyout.
Due to the complexity of the situation, the stars would definitely have to align in order for the Lakers to acquire the services of Andre Drummond, but they're confident about having a chance. Needless to say, a player of his caliber would certainly make the Lakers a better team, especially in their bid to defend their title come the playoffs.
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