Christian Wood's disappointing Lakers tenure comes to an end

Len, who reportedly planned to sign with the Indiana Pacers, pivoted to the Lakers after the Mark Williams trade fell through, leaving Los Angeles scrambling for frontcourt depth.

Wood, a well-traveled NBA journeyman, has long been recognized for his ability as a stretch big. His arrival in Los Angeles was initially met with optimism, as he was expected to provide much-needed frontcourt relief alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The big man had averaged double figures in five straight seasons prior to his Los Angeles arrival. However, his time with the Lakers was plagued by a persistent injury that ultimately derailed his tenure.

The 29-year-old appeared in 50 games during the 2023-24 campaign, averaging 6.9 points, 5.1 rebounds and one assist per game off the bench. While his numbers were modest, his ability to space the floor and contribute in spurts made him a potentially valuable rotation piece. 

Although, his season came to an abrupt halt on Feb. 14, 2024, due to a left knee injury. After undergoing arthroscopic surgery in March, he was initially expected to return before the 2024-25 season. But a setback led to a second procedure in September, further delaying his recovery and casting doubt on his future with the team.

Despite repeated assurances from the Lakers regarding his progress, Wood remained sidelined, even as he took to social media to hint at an impending return. Meanwhile, Los Angeles' frontcourt depth was stretched thin. Injuries to Jaxson Hayes and two-way center Christian Koloko—who was himself returning from significant health issues—only added to the team’s desperation for reinforcements.

The situation became even more dire when Anthony Davis was traded to the Dallas Mavericks, leaving Los Angeles with a glaring hole in the middle. The addition of Trey Jemison III on a two-way contract provided temporary support, but it was clear the Lakers needed a more established presence. With Wood unable to get back on the court and occupying a valuable roster spot, the team ultimately made the decision to move on.

Enter Len, who recently became available on the buyout market after being waived by the Washington Wizards. He had been part of a three-team trade that sent Marcus Smart from the Memphis Grizzlies to Washington and saw Len move from the Sacramento Kings.

Though the Ukrainian's impact has diminished in recent years—averaging just 1.8 points over the past three seasons in Sacramento—his availability alone makes him a worthwhile addition for a Lakers team in desperate need of any healthy big man. At 31, Len brings experience and depth to a depleted frontcourt as Los Angeles looks to stabilize its rotation for the remainder of the season.