LOS ANGELES—The Los Angeles Lakers have shown interest in potentially trading for center Jalen Smith from the Bulls. He would become the Lakers backup center potentially in exchange for Dalton Knecht, Jake LaRavia or Jaden Hardy and second round picks.
Smith has an ability to space the floor for the Lakers and has shown high value energy for the bulls. He has the ability to play center or power forward because of his shooting ability.
Smith averaged 10.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in 53 games for Chicago. He attempted 4.2 three pointers a game and making 37.3 percent of them.
The 26-year-old still has $18 million left over two years on his contract which is moveable. He has the ability to open up the lanes for the Laker guards Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. He can play alongside Walker Kessler due to his offensive versatility and being able to play away from the basket.
Smith is a smaller big which could be a matchup problem for him at 6-foot-8. With the size difference he will naturally have limitations on defense which is concern for the Lakers.
The Lakers backup is Kevon Looney who rebounds well but doesn’t space the floor. Jalen Smith would be an immediate upgrade. The Chicago Bulls haven’t revealed official offers.
