The Los Angeles Lakers addressed one of their primary weaknesses today, as General Manager Rob Pelinka announced that the team had signed veteran center Tyson Chandler.
Other outlets have reported that the deal is worth $2,109,867, with the contract generating a cap hit of $1,333,140. Chandler recently cleared waivers and was previously on the Phoenix Suns. He is eligible to be traded February 6, one day before the trade deadline.
“Having observed our roster for the first 10 games of this young season, one of the areas that Earvin and I discussed with Luke that we desired to upgrade is interior defense and rebounding,” said Pelinka. “In Tyson Chandler we addressed that need, and so much more. We are excited that Tyson will bring championship-level experience to our Lakers team that will solidify our veteran leadership and help positively shape our young core. We are thrilled for Tyson to join us as we progress towards our ultimate goals as a team.”
The Lakers' lack of size and depth along the frontline this season has caused the team to be overly reliant on journeyman center JaVale McGee. Although McGee's play has greatly exceeded expectations, the Lakers have had few answers other than resorting to small-ball when he is out of the lineup. Rookie big man Moritz Wagner has been injured all season, and young backup center Ivica Zubac is still developing. The team's decision not to sign power forward Julius Randle has also contributed to the problem.
In Chandler, the Lakers have a reliable backup who can rebound, defend, and be a stabilizing presence in the locker room.
Currently in his 18th NBA season, Chandler owns career averages of 8.6 points (.596 FG%), 9.3 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game in 1,086 career games (875 starts) for Chicago, New Orleans, Charlotte, Dallas, New York and Phoenix. Shooting over 55 percent from the field in each of his last 13 seasons, Chandler currently ranks third all-time in field goal percentage (minimum 2,000 FGM).
Chandler was named Defensive Player of the Year in 2011-12, earning Third Team All-NBA honors. A three-time All-Defensive Team selection (2010-13) and 2013 NBA All-Star, Chandler was a member of the 2011 NBA Champion Dallas Mavericks and won a gold medal with Team USA at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com and news services
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