The Los Angeles Lakers has emerged as a strong favorite to sign Andre Drummond, sources told ESPN on Saturday night.
Drummond releases resignations on Sunday at 5 pm Eastern time, but could end a pledge to join the Lakers earlier this weekend, sources said.
Lakers stars and the front office have been recruiting a lot of Drummond, selling him the opportunity to join the defending champion’s starting team, the sources said. The Lakers had an inconsistent central game with Marc Gasol and Montrezl Harrell this season, and Drummond’s ability to protect the paint and the rebound would allow him to have a significant impact.
All-Star Anthony Davis is expected to play central minutes in the postseason as well.
Drummond and his agent, Jeff Schwartz, have had discussions with several teams since arriving on a purchase with the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday, including Lakers, Clippers, Knicks, Celtics, Hornets and others, sources said.
Drummond agreed to purchase the remainder of the remaining $ 27.9 million in his 2020-2021 contract. He will become a free agent this summer.
Drummond hasn’t played a game since February 12, after he and the Cavaliers decided they would split up until a deal or contract purchase.
Drummond, 27, averaged 17.5 points and 13.5 rebounds in 25 games this season with Cleveland. After the Cavaliers switched to a younger center, Jarrett Allen, Drummond’s role was diminished and the sides agreed that he would leave the active squad until a negotiation or purchase allowed him to move on.
Drummond spent eight seasons with the Detroit Pistons before a negotiation in 2020 with the Cavaliers. He was twice an All-Star with the Pistons.