6 Lakers who definitely won’t be back next season
By Jason Reed
4. Mo Bamba
Mo Bamba is another trade acquisition from the 2023 deadline that did not quite work out for the Lakers. This one is painful as well as Mamba really looked like he could be a discount version of Myles Turner for the Lakers.
On paper, Bamba’s ability to provide rim protection while also being able to space the floor on offense would play perfectly next to Anthony Davis. Bamba would allow Davis to free roam more on defense while also playing the five on offense.
It was a fit that we never got to see. Ham never really gave this Bamba-Davis lineup a try and then Bamba sprained his ankle and missed a chunk of time at the end of the regular season. Without having a chance to experiment with lineups, Bamba was unable to earn a spot in the rotation.
Like Beasley, Mo Bamba is too expensive for the Lakers
Bamba is set to make $10.3 million next season on a non-guaranteed contract. Los Angeles has the ability to get out of the deal with no money owed and that seems like the mots likely outcome at this point in time.
There is a very slim chance the Lakers could try and sign Bamba to a two-year deal that pays him far less but that will depend on his market. At the end of the day, LA doesn’t need to pay Bamba $10.3 million when there are so many depth centers that can be had at the league minimum.