To address frontcourt concerns, the Lakers may sign an undersized power forward.

As the Los Angeles Lakers head into the final stretch of the regular season with hopes of securing a solid playoff position, frontcourt concerns have been a recurring issue for the team. With Anthony Davis facing injury uncertainty and LeBron James‘s aging body continuing to show wear, the Lakers’ frontcourt depth has become a significant challenge. While the team has tried to address some of these issues by leveraging its existing roster, Lakers’ management has recently hinted at the possibility of signing an undersized power forward to provide more options for head coach Darvin Ham in the post.

In a league dominated by towering athletic giants and versatile big men, the concept of adding an undersized power forward might seem counterintuitive. However, the Lakers’ situation is unique, and such a move could address their specific frontcourt needs — namely, the lack of depth and scoring in the low post and power forward spots. This article will explore the rationale behind potentially signing an undersized power forward, the impact it could have on the Lakers’ roster, and how this move might fit within their larger strategy as they head into the playoffs.

The Lakers’ Frontcourt Concerns

The Los Angeles Lakers have long been built around a strong frontcourt, especially with the presence of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Davis, when healthy, is an elite two-way player capable of dominating both ends of the floor, particularly in the paint. However, Davis has struggled with injuries over the past few seasons, limiting his availability and forcing the Lakers to look for additional depth in the frontcourt. Similarly, LeBron James, though still a dominant force, is no longer the explosive player he once was. As LeBron ages, his ability to carry the Lakers on both ends of the floor, particularly in the frontcourt, is starting to diminish.

The Undersized Power Forward Concept

Typically, power forwards are expected to be strong and tall players who can defend the paint, crash the boards, and provide scoring in the low post. However, the modern game has evolved, and teams increasingly value versatility over traditional size. Some of the best power forwards in the NBA today, like Draymond Green and PJ Tucker, are considered undersized in terms of height but are valuable contributors due to their basketball IQ, defensive versatility, and ability to stretch the floor.

For the Lakers, signing an undersized power forward could be a strategic move to address their needs while adapting to the modern NBA style. This player wouldn’t necessarily be expected to replace the traditional big men like Davis but could fill a complementary role that adds value in certain matchups.

Why the Lakers Are Looking for an Undersized Power Forward

The Lakers’ current roster has a few solid frontcourt players, but there are several reasons why they might consider signing an undersized power forward.

1. Lack of Depth Behind Davis

Despite Davis’s importance to the Lakers, there’s always a lingering concern regarding his health and availability. The Lakers have been without their star player for various stretches over the past few seasons, and this inconsistency in the frontcourt has hurt them in the postseason. Currently, the team has Wenyen Gabriel, Rui Hachimura, and Thomas Bryant as backup bigs. However, none of these players have been able to consistently deliver the same level of impact as Davis, particularly on both ends of the floor.

Signing an undersized power forward could address the depth concerns behind Davis. A versatile forward who can play both as a small-ball power forward and occasionally slide to center in smaller lineups could provide the flexibility the Lakers need when Davis is not available or when they need to switch up matchups to maximize their chances against specific opponents.

2. The Need for Versatility

In today’s NBA, versatility has become a crucial attribute. Teams like the Golden State Warriors have demonstrated the power of positionless basketball, where players can seamlessly transition between positions. An undersized power forward would allow the Lakers to explore smaller lineups that focus on pace, spacing, and defensive versatility.

The Lakers have struggled in certain matchups against teams that play with multiple stretch forwards or floor-spacing bigs. A smaller power forward who can stretch the floor with the three-point shot and defend multiple positions could give the Lakers a unique weapon. Whether it’s guarding quicker, more mobile power forwards or offering a quicker offensive option on the floor, this kind of player could be the spark the Lakers need in certain scenarios.

3. Stretching the Floor and Providing Scoring Options

While the Lakers have a solid scoring foundation with players like LeBron James and Davis, there are concerns about their ability to score consistently from outside the paint. Adding an undersized power forward with the ability to stretch the floor could help open up space for the Lakers’ offense. A player who can hit perimeter shots and provide spacing for LeBron and Davis to operate in the paint could significantly improve the team’s offensive flow.

Players like Tucker and Green are known for their ability to make plays without dominating the ball and often contribute to the offense with catch-and-shoot opportunities. The Lakers need a similar presence — someone who can make an impact with minimal touches and still be an effective part of the offense.

Who Could the Lakers Sign?

Several players currently available on the free-agent market could be viable candidates for the Lakers if they decide to pursue an undersized power forward. Here are a few names that stand out:

1. PJ Tucker (Philadelphia 76ers)

PJ Tucker is one of the best examples of a modern, undersized power forward. Standing at 6’5″, Tucker is known for his elite defense, grit, and leadership. He can guard multiple positions, including the power forward spot, and provide valuable three-point shooting. Tucker’s experience in the playoffs, combined with his tough, physical style of play, would make him an ideal fit for a Lakers team that needs someone to help keep them competitive in high-stakes games.

While Tucker may not be the high-flyer he once was, his defensive IQ, leadership, and ability to space the floor with corner threes would give the Lakers added depth and versatility in their frontcourt. If the Lakers decide to go small-ball in certain situations, Tucker’s presence would provide the toughness and defensive capability needed to succeed.

2. Paul Millsap (Free Agent)

Paul Millsap is another veteran forward with the ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. While not necessarily known for being undersized, Millsap is shorter than the typical power forward at 6’7″ but has shown he can guard bigger players and stretch the floor. Millsap’s ability to shoot from mid-range and three-point range, along with his savvy defense and leadership, make him an intriguing option for the Lakers.

Millsap has experience playing in various systems and could offer a steady veteran presence off the bench. If the Lakers sign Millsap, they would have a reliable forward who can space the floor, contribute defensively, and provide valuable minutes during crunch-time situations.

3. Eric Paschall (Free Agent)

Eric Paschall is a younger option who could bring some upside to the Lakers. Standing at 6’6″, Paschall is considered undersized for a power forward but has the skills to play the position effectively. He can shoot from the perimeter, score in the paint, and defend well enough to make him a useful rotation player. Paschall has shown flashes of potential in his previous stints with the Golden State Warriors and Utah Jazz, and could be an intriguing addition for the Lakers if they want to add some youth and athleticism to their frontcourt.

How This Move Affects the Lakers’ Strategy

Signing an undersized power forward could allow the Lakers to play more small-ball lineups, which would enable them to increase the pace of their offense and add more floor-spacing options. This could be particularly useful against teams that like to play fast or are heavy on three-point shooting.

The Lakers could also use the added versatility to match up better against teams with quicker, more mobile frontcourts. Players like LeBron James and Dennis Schröder could benefit from the spacing created by an undersized power forward, which would allow them to drive more effectively and create for others.

Defensively, the Lakers would have to be strategic in how they use an undersized power forward, especially in matchups with traditional bigs. However, the right player — one with defensive tenacity and an ability to guard multiple positions — could help the Lakers remain competitive even when playing smaller lineups.