After a humbling playoff exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves, it’s become painfully clear what the Lakers are lacking: physicality, size, and a true presence in the paint. While their backcourt and wings held their own, they were overpowered by Rudy Gobert and Naz Reid on both ends of the floor. The absence of a reliable starting center has left a gaping hole that no amount of perimeter talent can fill.
Now, the front office is reportedly eyeing a blockbuster move to fix that.
The Embiid gamble could cost the Lakers more than just depth
According to The Bill Simmons Podcast, a proposal could be brewing that would send Joel Embiid, yes, that Joel Embiid, to Los Angeles in exchange for expiring contracts and a distant first-round pick. On paper, it’s the type of deal that could instantly catapult the Lakers into championship contention. Pairing Embiid with LeBron James and Anthony Davis sounds like a cheat code. But the risks are just as high.
Embiid has had two knee surgeries, both on the same meniscus, and his future availability is far from guaranteed. Pain and swelling disrupted his 2024 season, and further surgical intervention may be necessary. Any team acquiring him isn’t just betting on his talent, but on his health holding up long enough to make a difference.
A bold move, or a dangerous one?
For general manager Rob Pelinka, this is a high-wire decision. Trading for Embiid could leave the Lakers with virtually no depth, little financial flexibility, and an aging core. But it could also deliver another championship window, brief, volatile, and brilliant.
The clock is ticking on LeBron’s prime, and the franchise is under pressure to deliver. Whether Pelinka pulls the trigger may come down to one question: Is it worth risking the future for a fragile superstar who, if healthy, changes everything?
Sometimes, greatness demands a leap of faith. But when that leap is toward a center with chronic knee issues, it’s a long way down if things go wrong.
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