NBA Rumors: Lakers May Need Backup Big Man If Marc Gasol Leaves – Report

The Los Angeles Lakers have some open roster spots, and their priority is believed to be acquiring a guard and a wingman. However, a center could be added to that list if reports are true that Marc Gasol may not return to don the purple and gold next season.

Gasol is not a lock to return to the Lakers this 2021-22 NBA season, NBA insider Marc Stein reported. This is despite the 36-year-old saying after Spain’s quarterfinal loss to the U.S. at the Tokyo Olympics that he intends to play out the remainder of his contract with the purple and gold.

But as previously reported, the options of Gasol are not limited to the Lakers. He could finish his basketball career with Barcelona.

The Spanish club has reportedly been eyeing the 2013 NBA Defensive Player of the Year, with general manager Juan Carlos Navarro wanting to him to team up with his elder brother, Pau Gasol.

There is also the possibility of seeing the three-time All-Star play for another NBA team, particularly the ones in need of a big man. However, no team has been seriously linked to Gasol as of this writing.

Should the Lakers lose Gasol, it would leave them undermanned at the center position. Dwight Howard returned to the fold, but the understanding was that he would alternate with Gasol in the middle.

Anthony Davis may have to play center next season, a position that he is not exactly comfortable with. But unless the Lakers can take in another big man, “The Brow” may have to adjust and play center for the coming season.

The Lakers could check out free agency and see who is available. One notable player who may get linked if Gasol leaves is DeMarcus Cousins.

Cousins almost suited up for the Lakers in 2019, signing a one-year contract. But an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the offseason spurned that chance.

He never got the chance to wear the purple and gold and went on to play for the Houston Rockets (2020-21) and the Los Angeles Clippers last season.