After failing to sign Blake Griffin, the Los Angeles Lakers are eyeing the next big name that’s likely to hit free agency. The defending champions are expected to pursue Andre Drummond if he gets bought out by the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Cleveland has benched Drummond as they try to trade the two-time All-Star before the March 25 deadline. There’s a good chance the Cavaliers won’t be able to find a trade partner for Drummond because of his massive $28.7 million salary.

There is optimism within the Lakers that they might be able to sign Drummond, the New York Times’ Marc Stein reports. Los Angeles also has interest in DeMarcus Cousins for its backup center role, according to The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor, but the team would prefer to acquire Drummond.

Cousins was released by the Houston Rockets before the All-Star break. He put up averages of 9.6 points and 7.6 rebounds in 25 games. Cousins was a member of the Lakers in the 2019-20 season but did not play due to a tear in his anterior cruciate ligament.

The Lakers are looking to add frontcourt depth. Centers Dwight Howard and JaVale McGee were part of last year’s championship roster but were not retained in the offseason. Anthony Davis has missed several weeks with a calf injury.

In Davis’ absence, the Lakers have lost seven of 10 games.

Prior to being benched, Drummond averaged 17.5 points and 13.5 rebounds in 25 games. The 27-year-old has led the NBA in rebounding in four of the last five seasons.

The Lakers rank eighth in the NBA in rebounds per game.

Los Angeles was reportedly interested in Griffin, who signed with the Brooklyn Nets after being bought out by the Detroit Pistons. Brooklyn is considered to be the Lakers’ biggest threat in their bid to repeat as champions.

Andre Drummond Lakers Cavaliers
Andre Drummond #3 of the Cleveland Cavaliers shoots over LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the first quarter at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on January 25, 2021 in Cleveland, Ohio. Jason Miller/Getty Images
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