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Introduction: the Bold Move Sign 7-Foot Len with LeBron and Doncic
The Los Angeles Lakers have made a bold move by signing 7-foot Ukrainian center Alex Len after a failed trade for Mark Williams. The announcement came on Tuesday, just days after Len was waived by the Washington Wizards. This unexpected signing comes as the Lakers seek to bolster their roster following the departure of star center Anthony Davis.
The move also brings another big man to the team, which already features NBA superstars LeBron James and newly acquired Luka Doncic. With the Lakers currently in strong playoff contention, the addition of Len could prove crucial as they push for championship success.
Why the Lakers Signed Alex Len
The Lakers’ pursuit of a big man intensified after their attempted trade for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams fell through. Williams reportedly failed his physical examination, leading to the trade being rescinded. This left the Lakers scrambling to find a replacement who could bring size and experience to their lineup.
Len, a veteran of 12 NBA seasons, became the perfect candidate. His ability to protect the rim and provide depth in the frontcourt made him a logical choice. Reports suggested that Len was close to signing with the Indiana Pacers before the Lakers made their move, securing him as a free agent to address their immediate needs.
Alex Len’s NBA Journey
Alex Len has had a long and eventful career in the NBA. Originally selected as the 5th overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns, Len spent five seasons in Phoenix before moving to multiple teams, including:
- Atlanta Hawks
- Sacramento Kings (two separate stints)
- Toronto Raptors
- Washington Wizards
In his 12 seasons, Len has played 680 NBA games, averaging 6.7 points and 5.3 rebounds per game. Although primarily a bench player in recent years, he has proven to be a reliable defensive presence in the paint.
Lakers’ Roster Changes and Strategy
To make room for Len, the Lakers released forward Christian Wood, who was dealing with an injury. This move highlights the team’s urgency in reinforcing their frontcourt depth and addressing defensive weaknesses.
The Lakers are currently fourth in the Western Conference with a 32-19 record and are riding a six-game win streak. With playoff aspirations high, they needed to secure a big man capable of complementing their current roster.
How Len Fits with LeBron and Doncic
The Lakers’ offense revolves around their two superstar playmakers—LeBron James and Luka Doncic. With Anthony Davis no longer in the lineup, Len is expected to play a supporting role, providing interior defense and rebounding.
Len’s strengths include:
- Rim protection – His height and defensive experience help contest shots in the paint.
- Rebounding – He provides much-needed support in securing defensive and offensive rebounds.
- Pick-and-roll presence – Playing alongside elite passers like LeBron and Doncic, Len could be effective in pick-and-roll situations.
While Len may not replicate Davis’ offensive dominance, he brings size and stability, allowing LeBron and Doncic to focus more on playmaking and scoring.
Impact on the Lakers’ Playoff Hopes
With the Western Conference race tightening, every roster move counts. The Lakers’ decision to sign Len reflects their commitment to shoring up their frontcourt depth and remaining competitive against elite teams like the Denver Nuggets, Golden State Warriors, and Phoenix Suns.
Though Len won’t be a game-changer offensively, his ability to block shots, set screens, and grab rebounds will be vital in crucial playoff matchups. His role will likely be that of a defensive anchor and backup center, allowing the Lakers to have a reliable big man for rotation minutes.
Conclusion
The Lakers’ signing of Alex Len is a strategic response to the failed Mark Williams trade. Though not a superstar, Len fills an essential role in the team’s structure, offering size, defense, and rebounding. His presence allows LeBron James and Luka Doncic to thrive while maintaining the team’s defensive intensity.
With the Lakers in strong contention for the playoffs, this addition could play a key role in their push for another championship run. The coming weeks will determine how well Len integrates into the team and whether this bold move pays off in their postseason aspirations.
FAQ
1. Why did the Lakers sign Alex Len with LeBron and Doncic?
The Lakers needed a big man after their trade for Mark Williams fell through. Len was available as a free agent and fit their immediate needs for size and defense
2. How does Alex Len compare to Anthony Davis?
While Len does not have Davis’ scoring ability, he provides solid defense, rebounding, and size—important assets for the Lakers’ roster.
3. What teams has Alex Len played for?
Len has played for the Phoenix Suns, Atlanta Hawks, Toronto Raptors, Sacramento Kings (twice), and Washington Wizards before joining the Lakers.
4. Will Alex Len be a starter for the Lakers?
It’s unlikely. He will likely play a backup role, providing depth in the frontcourt and supporting the Lakers’ star players.
5. Who was released to make room for Alex Len?
The Lakers released forward Christian Wood, who was dealing with an injury, to open up a roster spot for Len.
Disclaimer
This article: LeBron and Doncic: Lakers Make Bold Move Sign 7-Foot Len is based on publicly available information and official announcements from the Los Angeles Lakers and NBA sources. Any changes to roster details or player roles will be updated as new reports emerge.
For more updates, refer to NBA.com, ESPN, and other reputable sports news sources.
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