[ad_1]
Former defensive NBA defensive player of the year may give momentum to Lakers home defense and rebound
BATTLE-TESTED. Tyson Chandler (right) hopes to bring his Los Angeles Lakers experience as a champion. Photo of Maddie Meyer / Getty Images / AFP
LOS ANGELES, USA – The Los Angeles Lakers have formalized the acquisition of veteran center Tyson Chandler TuesdayOn November 6, he signed it two days after signing a buyout agreement with the Phoenix Suns.
Chandler, NBA's defensive player of the year in 2011-2012 and winner of an NBA title with Dallas in 2011, is in his 18th season of the NBA.
He brings the depth needed at the center to a Lakers team that still stands out after adding superstar LeBron James this season.
They rely heavily on veteran JaVale McGee, who averages 26.2 minutes per game, the first time in 7 years he has an average of 20 minutes or more.
Chief Executive Rob Pelinka said he discussed the move with Earvin "Magic" Johnson, head of basketball operations, as well as coach Luke Walton.
"After watching our composition for the first 10 games of this young season, Earvin and I discussed with Luke our desire to improve our home defense and recovery system," Pelinka said.
"In Tyson Chandler, we have responded to this need and more.We are delighted that Tyson is bringing to our Lakers team a championship level experience that will strengthen our veteran leadership and help shape our young core. "
Chandler, 36, averages 8.6 points (0.596 FG%), 9.3 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game in 1,086 career games for Chicago, New Orleans, Charlotte, Dallas, New York and Phoenix.
The Los Angeles-based player asked his contract with Phoenix to buy back his status as a free agent as the Suns focused on developing their young players this season. – Rappler.com
Source link
