New Announcement on Lakers’ Alex Len Contract: Los Angeles Fills Hole at Center Position

The Los Angeles Lakers have made a significant move to bolster their roster, signing veteran center Alex Len in a deal aimed at addressing their longstanding need for depth in the frontcourt. The announcement, made early this morning, has sent ripples through the NBA community as the Lakers gear up for a playoff push in the highly competitive Western Conference.

With the 2024-2025 season already underway, the Lakers have been searching for a reliable big man to complement Anthony Davis, who has carried much of the load in the paint. The addition of Alex Len not only provides much-needed size but also a steady presence on both ends of the floor.

Why the Lakers Needed Alex Len

The Lakers have struggled with consistency at the center position for several seasons. While Anthony Davis is a dominant force, his preference to play power forward and his occasional injury woes have often left the team vulnerable in the paint.

The Lakers began the season with a mix of smaller lineups and part-time center play from Davis, Rui Hachimura, and Christian Wood. While this strategy provided offensive versatility, it left gaps on defense and rebounding. The addition of Alex Len gives the Lakers a true seven-footer who can take on traditional center duties, freeing up Davis to focus on his preferred role.

Len, a 7-foot-1, 250-pound center with a solid NBA resume, is known for his ability to protect the rim, rebound, and finish around the basket. His skill set aligns perfectly with what the Lakers need to complement their star players and improve their overall team balance.

Alex Len’s Journey

Alex Len, the fifth overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, has carved out a respectable career as a role-playing big man. Over the years, he has played for several teams, including the Phoenix Suns, Atlanta Hawks, Sacramento Kings, and Washington Wizards.

Last season, Len averaged 6.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks in limited minutes for the Sacramento Kings. While his stats don’t jump off the page, his impact goes beyond the box score. Len is a physical defender who clogs the lane, alters shots, and provides an interior presence that teams value in a backup or situational center.

Len’s experience and willingness to embrace his role make him an ideal fit for a team like the Lakers, who are looking to contend for a championship.

How Len Fits with the Lakers

With Alex Len in the mix, the Lakers now have a reliable rotation at the center position. Head coach Darvin Ham is expected to use Len primarily as a backup to Anthony Davis, allowing the superstar to manage his workload and avoid the physical toll of playing heavy minutes at center.

Len’s presence also gives the Lakers flexibility in their lineups. In matchups against teams with dominant big men, such as Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets or Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers, Len provides a physical option to help neutralize these threats.

Offensively, Len is not a high-usage player but thrives in pick-and-roll situations, finishing at the rim and setting solid screens for ball handlers like LeBron James and D’Angelo Russell. His ability to crash the offensive boards will also be a welcome addition to a Lakers team that has struggled with second-chance points.

Reactions to the Signing

The signing of Alex Len has been met with positive reactions from both fans and analysts. Lakers fans, in particular, are optimistic about what Len brings to the table, especially considering the team’s recent struggles with injuries and inconsistency in the frontcourt.

ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins praised the move, saying, “Alex Len may not be a flashy signing, but he’s exactly what the Lakers need—size, toughness, and a willingness to do the dirty work. This is a low-risk, high-reward addition for L.A.”

Teammates have also expressed excitement about the new addition, with LeBron James reportedly welcoming Len and emphasizing the importance of having a deep and versatile roster.

What’s Next for the Lakers?

The Lakers now turn their focus to integrating Alex Len into their system. With the season in full swing, the challenge will be to quickly establish chemistry between Len and the rest of the team.

Len is expected to make his debut in the Lakers’ next game against the Dallas Mavericks, where he’ll have an opportunity to show what he can bring to the team. If he can deliver consistent minutes and fill the void at center, the Lakers’ championship hopes will be significantly bolstered.

Conclusion

The addition of Alex Len signals the Lakers’ commitment to addressing their weaknesses and preparing for a deep playoff run. While Len may not be a blockbuster signing, his skill set and experience make him an invaluable piece for a team with championship aspirations.

With a more complete roster and a reinforced frontcourt, the Lakers are better positioned to compete against the best teams in the league. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Alex Len to see if he can live up to expectations and help the Lakers achieve their ultimate goal: bringing another championship to Los Angeles.