The LA Lakers have made significant moves ahead of the trade deadline, notably trading Anthony Davis to acquire superstar Luka Doncic. However, the team faced challenges in reinforcing their frontcourt when a deal for center Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets fell through after he failed a physical. This setback forced the Lakers to explore the buyout market for reinforcements.

In a bid to bolster their roster, the Lakers signed veteran big man Alex Len while parting ways with Christian Wood, who struggled with injuries and was unable to play this season. Wood averaged 6.9 PPG and 5.1 RPG during his tenure with LA, and his exit marks yet another chapter in his journeyman career, having previously found success with the Detroit Pistons.