The Los Angeles Lakers have established themselves as strong leaders for signing Andre Drummond, sources told ESPN on Saturday night.
Drummond eliminates the waivers Sunday at 5 p.m. ET, but could complete his commitment to join the Lakers earlier this weekend, sources said.
The star players and the Lakers front office recruited Drummond hard, giving him the opportunity to enter the starting lineup of the reigning champion, sources said. The Lakers have had an inconsistent central game with Marc Gasol and Montrezl Harrell this season, and Drummond’s ability to protect the paint and allow it would allow him to make a significant impact.
All-Star Anthony Davis would be expected to play central minutes in the postseason.
Drummond and his agent, Jeff Schwartz, have been in talks with several teams since they reached a buyout with the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday, including the Lakers, Clippers, Knicks, Celtics, Hornets and others, sources said.
Drummond has agreed to a ransom for the remaining $ 27.9 million from his 2020-2021 contract. He will become a free agent this summer.
Drummond has not played a game since Feb. 12, after he and the Cavaliers decided to separate until they bought a contract or a contract.
Drummond, 27, has averaged 17.5 points and 13.5 rebounds in 25 starts this season with Cleveland. After the Knights switched to a younger center, Jarrett Allen, Drummond’s role was diminished, and the parties agreed to leave the active list until a transaction or purchase allowed him to move on.
Drummond spent eight seasons with the Detroit Pistons before a 2020 deal with the Cavaliers. He was twice All-Star with the Pistons.