Lakers pursue Nick Richards amid roster overhaul after LeBron departure
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 21, 2026, 4:15 AM
Last updated Jul 21, 2026
The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly competing with the Miami Heat and New York Knicks to sign free agent center Nick Richards. This pursuit comes as the Lakers seek a backup for recently acquired Walker Kessler following the trade of Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards. Richards, a 7-foot rim protector, has attracted interest due to his defensive capabilities, and all three teams are exploring options to secure him for the upcoming season. The Lakers are committed to enhancing their defense to complement their revamped roster built around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
- •Lakers aim to secure Nick Richards as backup center.
- •Richard's defensive skills appeal to multiple teams.
- •Lakers recently traded Deandre Ayton to the Wizards.
- •Los Angeles has reshaped its roster around Doncic and Reaves.
- •Richards has earned $19 million in his NBA career.
- 4:15 AMYahoo Sports — Lakers in bidding war with Knicks, Heat for $19M elite rim protector to back up Walker Kessler
"LA is trying to find a back up center for next season. They have inquired about one of the best center's left on the market.
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