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NBA Free Agency: Lakers interested in Tyson Chandler, according to report

The Lakers are looking at their options at center during free agency.

Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Lakers might be eyeing big man DeAndre Jordan, but they aren't leaving their center options limited. Tyson Chandler is another center the Lakers are interested in signing this summer, according to Chris Broussard of ESPN. Chandler previously played under head coach Byron Scott with the New Orleans Hornets for three seasons, anchoring the Hornets' defense while Chris Paul developed into one of the NBA's top point guards.

Chandler would be a good fit with the Lakers' roster as the team lacks talent at center. He could immediately slide into the starting lineup, becoming the Lakers' rim protector and giving D'Angelo Russell an established big man to work the pick-and-roll with. While Tyson's age is something to consider -- he turns 33 in October -- he's still a talented frontcourt player that would be a nice catch for Los Angeles, especially if Jordan doesn't sign with the the Lakers.

Several teams will seek Chandlers services, making it a tough market for the Lakers to maneuver through. Chandler is also a southern California native and went to high school in Compton, potentially giving the Lakers a bit of hometown advantage to pitch him.

It's good that the Lakers are also evaluating their second-tier options and not focused solely on the maximum-level players. He could also be a cheaper option at center if they spend a large chunk of salary at an alternate position. He's coming off of the final year of a four-year, $47.1 million contract, but it's unclear what kind of deal he hopes to sign this summer.

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