Nerlens Noel
Nerlens Noel has really never found a solidified home in the NBA and has bounced around from team-to-team over the years. The Knicks gave him a shot to be their backup center this year and Noel has turned himself into a very solid rotational player for them.
With Mitchell Robinson out with a broken hand, Noel has been throwing into the starting rotation for the Knicks and has not disappointed them. In his last 4 games, he is averaging 8.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.8 blocks.
Noel currently ranks 5th in the league in blocks with 1.9 blocks per game and could be a great defensive addition for the Lakers. The only question is what it would cost to get a player like him since he does hold some value now on the Knicks.
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Los Angeles would likely not be willing to trade any valuable role players or first-round picks, so Noel could be off the table in terms of the Knicks trading him, but he would fit in perfectly in L.A. His shot-blocking abilities make him a great defensive center and someone who would not replicate Anthony Davis’ production, but could help ease things defensively for this team.
Regardless of what the Knicks want for him, the Lakers should still look to pursue Nerlens Noel and at least try to lower the asking price for him in a potential trade before the trade deadline.
