$27M Smith Emerges As Ideal Player To Fill Anthony Davis Void

The Los Angeles Lakers sit fifth in the Western Conference with a 26-19 record. Despite their strong record, they have a negative point differential, raising concerns about their overall consistency. The team now faces an even bigger challenge. To overcome this challenge, the Lakers could turn to Jalen Smith on the Chicago Bulls. 

$27M Jalen Smith Emerges As Ideal Player To Fill Anthony Davis Void

Anthony Davis suffered an abdominal strain in the first quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers. He immediately left the court, leaving fans worried about his availability. The Lakers confirmed that Davis underwent an MRI scan, which ruled him out for at least a week. He will be re-evaluated before any return timeline is finalized.

The Lakers announced Davis will not travel with the team for the remainder of this road trip. This decision further underlines the severity of his injury. His absence leaves a massive void in both scoring and defense.

JJ Redick Faces Tough Decisions

Davis’ injury puts first-year head coach JJ Redick in a difficult position. The Lakers have struggled with inconsistency all season and need stability. Losing their best defender and leading scorer only adds to their problems.

Redick must decide how to replace Davis in the starting lineup. He has options, but none are perfect. Jaxson Hayes has size and athleticism, but lacks Davis’ defensive presence. Two-way player Christian Koloko is inexperienced and unproven. Another possibility is going small with Dorian Finney-Smith at center.

However, none of these options provide the interior dominance the Lakers need. They must consider external solutions, especially with the trade deadline approaching.

Jalen Smith Could Be the Answer

One player the Lakers should target is Jalen Smith of the Bulls. Smith, 24, signed a three-year, $27 million deal in free agency. His contract carries an $8.57 million cap hit for the 2024-25 season, making him an affordable trade target.

Smith fits what the Lakers need. He is a strong roll man on offense and a reliable rim protector on defense. He averages 8.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and shoots 64.4% on true shooting, ranking in the 93rd percentile. Defensively, he blocks 3.4% of the shots he faces, putting him in the 85th percentile. Opponents score 2.9 fewer points per possession when he is on the court.

Smith’s 6’9″ frame may not be overwhelming, but his 7’2″ wingspan allows him to contest shots effectively. He would provide much-needed size and length in Davis’ absence.

How Smith Would Fit in Los Angeles

The Lakers have been searching for a reliable backup big man all season. Smith would step in immediately, helping to stabilize the frontcourt. He could start while Davis recovers, then shift into a backup role.

Redick has recently experimented with two-big lineups, playing Davis alongside Hayes. Smith could fit into a similar role. His defensive versatility and rebounding ability make him a valuable asset.

Smith’s contract also makes him a low-risk acquisition. If he does not fit, the Lakers can easily move off his deal. The Bulls are likely sellers at the trade deadline with all the rumors swirling around the team, making a deal realistic.

What a Trade Could Look Like

The Lakers have the assets to acquire Smith. They could build a package around Gabe Vincent or Jarred Vanderbilt, and draft picks.

Chicago has won just two of its last ten games and may look to offload contracts. A trade would allow the Bulls to gain assets while clearing cap space.

For the Lakers, Smith represents a short-term solution and a long-term investment. His skill set complements Davis, and he provides insurance in case of further injuries.

Lakers Must Act Before the Deadline

Davis’ injury highlights the Lakers’ lack of depth in the frontcourt. Waiting for his return without reinforcement could hurt their playoff positioning.

Jalen Smith provides the Lakers with an ideal mix of size, defense, and efficiency. His contract is affordable, and his impact could be immediate. If the Lakers want to remain competitive, they must act before the trade deadline.