Los Angeles Lakers: 3 free agent centers to fill last roster spot

ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 09: Dewayne Dedmon #14 of the Atlanta Hawks reacts during the first half of an NBA game against the Charlotte Hornets at State Farm Arena on March 9, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 09: Dewayne Dedmon #14 of the Atlanta Hawks reacts during the first half of an NBA game against the Charlotte Hornets at State Farm Arena on March 9, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)
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Los Angeles Lakers
(Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers

3. Ian Mahinmi

If the Los Angeles Lakers are valuing defense then Ian Mahinmi is the best option available. He has turned defense into over $83 million in career earnings. He is coming off a four-year deal worth $64 million with the Washington Wizards.

Mahinmi has never been known for his offense as he usually puts up a negative OBPM. But his defense is what drives him as he is always in the plus for defensive win-shares and DBPM. He is a good one on one defender and is a strong presence in the paint.

His offense will be much better with the Lakers, but he’s not someone who will get you 10+ a night. The majority of his offense will come from dump-offs, rebounds and put backs. His strong frame makes him good on the offensive glass.

In Los Angeles, he won’t play as much as he has in the past. But at this point in his career, he could be used in a small role and could see who’s efficiency increase. As this would be by far the best team he’s even been apart of.