The Los Angeles Lakers made a massive and historic move this season by acquiring Luka Doncic in a blockbuster trade from the Dallas Mavericks. Following the monumental deal, the Lakers’ front office, led by general manager Rob Pelinka, also secured center Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets. Despite these roster additions, Pelinka is not done yet, as the Lakers continue to eye potential acquisitions through the buyout market.
As the season progresses, a handful of skilled players are expected to become available through buyouts, and one name that could catch the attention of Pelinka, Luka Doncic, and LeBron James is Larry Nance Jr. A former Los Angeles Lakers player, Nance has redefined his game over the years, making him a strong contender for the Lakers’ roster as they aim for a championship.
Luka Doncic at the Lakers press conference (Image via Imagn Images)
Currently playing for the Atlanta Hawks, Nance is having one of the best seasons of his 10-year NBA career. In 22 appearances this season, he is averaging 8.2 points and 4.3 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 46.4% from beyond the arc. This marks a significant improvement over his previous career-high of 41.5% from last year. Alongside his offensive development, Larry Nance Jr has emerged as a reliable defensive asset, boasting a 113 defensive rating per 100 possessions and a 0.9 defensive box plus-minus, highlighting his growth as a two-way player.
Despite his success, Nance finds himself in a limited role in Atlanta, playing behind Clint Capela and Onyeka Okongwu as the team’s third center. According to John Hollinger of The Athletic, Larry Nance Jr could be eyeing a move for more significant playing time: “Nance has an expiring deal, but his Bird rights could be valuable to Atlanta; the Hawks have dropped hints about keeping him around beyond this season. However, he’s also currently out of the mix as the third center behind Clint Capela and Onyeka Okongwu and might yearn to play more meaningful basketball.”
Also read: NBA Buyout Rumors: Golden State Warriors reportedly eyeing $39 million Detroit Pistons forward to enhance perimeter offense and support Stephen Curry
Larry Nance Jr’s fit with the Los Angeles Lakers seems natural given his past with the franchise. From 2015 to 2017, Nance gained recognition as one of the NBA’s most exciting dunkers. Now, with his transformation into an efficient shooter and a formidable defender, Nance could complement the Lakers’ high-powered offense. With Doncic and James running the floor, Nance could serve as an ideal screening partner, providing both rim protection and valuable spacing as a stretch forward.
