Lakers’ New Center Compares Himself to Dwight Howard
On January 15th, the Los Angeles Lakers made a strategic roster move aimed at providing All-Star center Anthony Davis with the support he desperately needs. Signing 6’10” center Trey Jemison to a two-way contract (while waiving guard Quincy Olivari) should address the Lakers’ thin frontcourt depth, particularly with injuries to Jaxson Hayes and Christian Wood creating a void behind AD. Citing his impressive combination of size and defensive intensity, the 25-year-old Jemison recently compared his physique to former Lakers center Dwight Howard. “These are genetics, I was blessed with Dwight Howard shoulders from a young age,” Jemison told the Pelicans podcast earlier this season. “I try to use them to set those screens and handle my business.” Following Thursday’s practice, Head coach JJ Redick offered an enthusiastic endorsement of the newest Laker, “First of all, a big body. And plays extremely hard,” Redick said. “We obviously did intel on him. He’s high character, high energy, smart player, too. High basketball IQ. Super humble. We’re excited to have him.” Despite being undrafted, Jemison has already shown flashes of potential in his young NBA career. During his 14 starts with the Memphis Grizzlies last season, he averaged 7.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks in 24.9 minutes per game. His collegiate career at UAB, where he led Conference USA in rebounds during his senior year, suggests his rebounding prowess could translate to the NBA level. When asked about Jemison’s new role, Redick indicated that the young center should see immediate playing time. “For Trey, I think he’s gonna have an opportunity at times to be out there with A.D. He’s gonna have an opportunity, at times, to play solo big, depending on who’s available,” Redick explained.
While signing Jemison addresses the Lakers’ most immediate frontcourt concerns, fans hoping for a blockbuster move ahead of the February 6 trade deadline might view this as nothing more than a marginal improvement. That said, the team has also been linked to trade talks with more established centers like Jonas Valanciunas, suggesting they may not be done reshaping their frontcourt rotation.
