The Los Angeles Lakers made it a point to add frontcourt depth heading into the season, recognizing a clear need to gain more size in the low post. However, injuries to Christian Wood and Jarred Vanderbilt have yet again created another need for a frontline piece.
On Friday, Lakers GM Rob Pelinka addressed it.
Free agent C/F Harry Giles III has agreed on a two-way NBA contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, his agent Daniel Hazan of Hazan Sports Management told @TheAthletic @Stadium. Lakers adding depth at the center position in wake of injuries to Christian Wood and Colin Castleton. pic.twitter.com/NPjA2iJufH
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 2, 2024
The Lakers' signing of Harry Giles could spell doom for the aforementioned Wood, who isn't nearly the rebounder that Giles is. The 25-year-old averaged 11.6 rebounds per 36 minutes with the Brooklyn Nets this season, compared to Wood's 10.5 boards per 36.
Granted, Giles isn't expected to be a key piece for the Lakers down the stretch, as two-way players rarely are. But for what the Lakers need, he's perfect.
Harry Giles could be a useful player for the Lakers
He can crash the glass and prevent open looks in the paint, while also eliminating second-chance opportunities for the opposition by minimizing offensive rebounds.
The Lakers don't really have anyone capable of doing this when Anthony Davis is on the bench. Giles was nearly a lottery pick in the 2017 NBA Draft but has struggled to find a long-term home in the league.
In other words, he hasn't been able to display his full potential. And at 25, he still has alot left in the tank.
(Although you'd never guess that, based on former Brooklyn Nets coach Jacque Vaughn's refusal to give him legitimate playing time).
Giles has made 57.6 percent of his two-pointers in 2023-24, while converting on 64.7 percent of his attempts at or around the rim. Giles is also athletic and can run the floor in transition.
In addition, he's a sneaky good defender. He plays with great anticipation and has great hands, not to mention his 7-foot-3 wingspan.
All told, Giles could prove to be a good find for the Lakers, especially on a two-way.