Lakers likely to make free-agent run at Raptors’ Ibaka

Raptors power forward Serge Ibaka drives to the basket during a game against the Celtics.

The Los Angeles Lakers are expected to pursue Toronto Raptors power forward Serge Ibaka in free agency, according to Sean Deveney of Heavy.com.

Ibaka, 31, is coming off a season in which he averaged 15.4 points and 8.2 rebounds. While he isn’t expected to have a ton of suitors this offseason, several contenders are likely to make a run.

Apparently, that list includes the defending champions.

“From a personnel standpoint, he is exactly the kind of combo big guy that team (the Lakers) needs,” Deveney quoted a general manager as saying. “They have had interest in him before and they will again. When he is healthy he is an excellent spot starter at the 5 (center) and the 4 (power forward).

The GM continued.

“He is as good a bench big guy as there is in the league,” he told Deveney. “He was a really credible 3-point threat last year. If he is willing to accept what the Lakers can afford to give him, I know they would want him.”

The Raptors are considered the favorites for Ibaka, Deveney reported. Along with the Lakers, the LA Clippers, Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks and Portland Trail Blazers could have Ibaka on the radar, per Deveney.

About the Author

Sam Amico
Sam Amico is the founder and senior writer of Amico Hoops. He has covered the NBA on a full-time basis for both Sports Illustrated and FOX Sports, and has been a regular contributor to CBS Sports, the Boston Herald and NBA.com.

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