The Los Angeles Lakers are at a crossroads with their frontcourt lineup, and changes seem inevitable if they want to keep pace in the competitive landscape of the NBA. With Luka Doncic at the helm, the Lakers are eyeing potential upgrades, and one name that’s surfaced is New Orleans Pelicans center Yves Missi.
Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints recently highlighted on his ClutchScoops show that the Lakers have shown interest in Missi over the past year. The buzz is that Los Angeles might be able to snag him for a first-round pick, which could be a savvy move if the price is right.
Missi's numbers may have dipped this season, but his appeal is clear. Standing at 6-foot-11, he brings energy and versatility to both ends of the court. His length and relentless drive make him a valuable asset for any team looking to bolster their interior presence.
Currently, Missi is putting up 5.6 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game, with a shooting percentage of 53.8% over 47 games. While these stats reflect a slight decline from his rookie year, they underscore his potential to impact the game significantly.
In his debut season, Missi averaged 9.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game, shooting an impressive 54.7% from the field across 67 contests. This level of production earned him a spot on the second-team All-Rookie list, showcasing his ability to adapt and thrive in the league.
For the Lakers, acquiring a player like Missi could be a strategic move to enhance their frontcourt depth and provide Doncic with a reliable partner in the paint. As the offseason approaches, all eyes will be on how the Lakers navigate their options and whether Missi becomes part of their future plans.