Nerlens Noel
You’re probably thinking to yourself, why would the Lakers need to add another center? They already have two quality guys in Howard and McGee and they’re playing well right now.
You would be correct by saying that as well. But in this league injuries happen, Howard and McGee have both dealt with them in their career as well. Adding someone like Nerlens Noel, could help this team in case of an injury.
There wouldn’t be a ton of minutes to go around, but Noel is versatile and could play a few minutes to go big at the four if needed. The Lakers could find ways to incorporate the three guys together or still keep the rotation of two of one gets hurt.
Noel does possess a no-trade clause in OKC. It has yet to be determined whether he sees himself in OKC long-term. If Sam Presti approaches him about an extension and he’s not willing to oblige, he will have to look to deal him to get some value back.
On the season his stats can be deceiving, he averages 7.5 points through 20 games on the season. He is shooting 64.8% from the field and averaging 18.3 minutes per night. Blocking 1.6 shots per night, his defense also looks to be tremendous on paper.
But looking at advanced stats his on-court play is lacking; his offensive rating is 102.3 and his defensive rating is at 109.6. That is a -7.3 net-rating which is very concerning. OKC is also a much better team on offense and defense with him off the court.
But a change of scenery and a team with championship aspirations could change his play. Would a Nerlens Noel for Talen Horton-Tucker deal be beneficial for both sides?
Lakers get a center that they could re-sign after this year that could help them win now. Thunder get a young prospect, that’s not ready for the NBA yet. But OKC has the time to develop, Lakers do not.