Former Laker Wants Celtics To Add One Of These Recent LA Centers

Just a few days ago, former Laker Matt Barnes outlined on Twitter how he believes that the Celtics should take a look at signing two former Laker big men: Dwight Howard, and DeMarcus Cousins to fill their backup big man void.

Let's dive into his suggestion:

Barnes rationalized the Celtics bringing in one of the two veteran bigs on the basis of needing "front line help" and "depth."

While both of these reasons are valid from Boston's perspective, as they recently dealt away All-Defensive Center Robert Williams III in their acquisition of guard Jrue Holiday, the question of if either Howard or Cousins are the answer at the backup center position is a major talking point.

Beginning with the 37-year old Howard, the former Laker champion has been out of the league since 2022, and has instead been playing with the Taoyuan Leopards of the T1 League, in Taiwan. Howard has been excellent there, winning the "Most Valuable Import" award, leading the league in rebounds along with being named to their All-Defensive and All-League First Teams.

However, it's no secret that overseas competition is weaker than NBA competition, and Howard went unsigned domestically, and ended up in Taiwan for a reason. While Boston definitely could add some depth, Howard would be a last resort.

DeMarcus Cousins is a more intriguing option as he's only 33, and would fit the age-range for typical backup centers, similar to Howard being 34 as a member of the Lakers' 2020 title run. Cousins has been playing for Mets de Guaynabo of the Baloncesto Superior Nacional (BSN) league of Puerto Rico. But, unlike Howard, Cousins is having his way less with the competition ramping up no accolades thus far.

As applies to both centers, they may have enough left in the tank to contribute in some meaningful way situationally to a contending team, but the Celtics are far likelier to deal first-round picks from the late 2020s or a slew of second round picks to procure a younger, more versatile big with more in the tank.

It's definitely a situation worth monitoring, however.

Are you following us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube or LA Sports Report yet? Join the conversation as we discuss the latest Lakers news and rumors with fans like you!