Lakers News: Former Darvin Ham Disciple Interested In Heading To LA

Could Los Angeles upgrade up front this summer?

The NBA Finals may have just started but it’s officially rumor season for your Los Angeles Lakers. According to a report, current Milwaukee Bucks reserve power forward/center Bobby Portis has expressed interest in joining the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason. Granted, Portis is under contract with Milwaukee for next season, but Rob Pelinka and company could try and swing a trade for the versatile big man.

Not exactly sure what they'd have to give up to get him but Bobby Portis playing next to Anthony Davis would create an incredible front-court duo for the Lakers

— Matthew Levine (@Levine1445) June 3, 2023

Lakers head coach Darvin Ham could be a big reason as to why Portis is potentially interested in joining the purple and gold due to his ties to the Bucks prior to coming to Los Angeles. Ham was considered a favorite by players during his time as an assistant with the Bucks and the relationships that he built could benefit the Lakers.

The 6'10" big man would provide a massive upgrade to the roster and give the team something they were lacking, the ability to stretch the floor well. Portis could give them another big body to play alongside Anthony Davis. Los Angeles severely lacked size up front and it showed in their loss to the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals.

Portis also would bring a winning culture with him as he has learned what it takes to win at the highest level. He came up huge for the Bucks throughout their series in the 2021 NBA Finals against the Phoenix Suns, even scoring 16 points in their game six close out win.

This is a crucial summer for the Lakers with the clock ticking on the career of LeBron James and Portis could be the missing piece for banner number 18 to hang in the rafters. 

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