The Los Angeles Lakers have been rumored to be looking to upgrade their center position ahead of the NBA trade deadline. While they aren’t expected to make any blockbuster moves, a sizable upgrade in the front-court would be ideal. Sacramento Kings big man Hassan Whiteside is a name that has come up in trade rumors recently.

Whiteside would be exactly the kind of pickup the Lakers need to look at. He isn’t going to be asked to score a lot, but he will defend the rim and make the defense much better.

So far this season in 23 games and one start with the Kings, Whiteside has averaged 8.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. He has shot 58 percent from the floor. Those numbers would look good for the Lakers.

Another key thing that the Lakers want to be careful to not do is overpay. They already have a roster capable of winning another NBA title. Keeping as much talent around Lebron James and Anthony Davis as possible is a must.

If the Lakers can get Hassan Whiteside at a good price, they should go for it. On the other hand, if they have to pay handsomely, he isn’t worth it.

Let’s take a look at one trade that the Lakers and Kings could make that would send Whiteside packing to Los Angeles.

Lakers get: Hassan Whiteside, Nemanja Bjelica

Kings get: Talen Horton-Tucker, cap fillers, two future second-round picks

Should this deal be on the table, the Lakers should absolutely pull the trigger. Even though THT has become a fan favorite in L.A., the Lakers would be getting back two important role players. Giving up a couple of future second-round picks is nothing to hold back from.

Whiteside could very well end up being the missing piece for the Lakers. He would provide the kind of defense needed to take L.A. to the next level.

Expect to see the Lakers remain active in trade discussions as the trade deadline draws closer. Hassan Whiteside is a name to keep a very close eye on.