Los Angeles Lakers fans got an intriguing bit of basketball buzz on Monday as reports surfaced linking free-agent center Larry Sanders with a potential contract offer from the Lakers organization.
Sanders, a former NBA player known for his shot-blocking and defensive presence, has been out of the league since the end of the 2014-15 season but remained a topic of conversation due to his previous performance with the Milwaukee Bucks and his size and athleticism.
Possible Lakers Interest
According to early reports from NBA insiders and local media, the Lakers were evaluating whether adding Sanders to the roster could bolster their interior defense and rebounding. At 6-11 with a 7-4 wingspan, Sanders offers size that could complement the Lakers’ young core.
Sources suggested that Los Angeles had engaged in preliminary discussions with Sanders’ camp to gauge interest on both sides, though no official offer had reportedly been finalized at the time.
Sanders’ NBA Background
Larry Sanders entered the NBA in 2010 when he was selected by the Milwaukee Bucks in the second round of the draft. Over several seasons, he developed a reputation as a defensive-minded center capable of altering shots, protecting the rim, and guarding multiple positions.
However, his career was marked by periods of inactivity and time away from the game, and he last appeared in NBA action in the 2014-15 season.
Lakers’ Roster Context
At the time, the Lakers were in a transitional phase, focused on developing young talent and exploring ways to improve their interior presence. Adding a veteran defensive big man was seen by some analysts as a low-risk move that could provide depth behind the team’s frontcourt rotation.
Despite the Lakers’ history of big-name signings, the Sanders situation was treated as speculation rather than confirmed news, and front office officials did not immediately release statements.
Outcome and Follow-Up
In subsequent weeks, the Lakers ultimately did not sign Larry Sanders, and he did not appear on the 2015-16 roster. Once the season got underway, Los Angeles pursued other avenues to address its roster needs.
Sanders’ professional basketball journey continued with overseas play and G League stints, though he did not re-establish a long-term role in the NBA following the 2015 offseason.
About The Author
