The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly frontrunners to sign former Toronto Raptors center Christian Koloko, who missed the entire 2023-24 season due to a serious medical issue involving blood clots. Koloko had a promising rookie season in 2022-23, playing 58 games and averaging one block per game, showcasing his defensive potential. However, his career was put on hold after a potentially career-threatening diagnosis.
The Lakers are looking to bolster their frontcourt, especially after Christian Wood underwent surgery, sidelining him for at least two months. While nothing is finalized, Koloko is still waiting for medical clearance from the NBA’s Fitness-to-Play panel before resuming his career. The Lakers face competition from teams like the Raptors and the Spurs, but his defensive skills and rim protection make him a low-risk option for the team [[❞]](https://clutchpoints.com/lakers-news-la-frontrunners-to-sign-ex-raptors-big-man-after-scary-medical-issue) [[❞]](https://fansided.com/2020/11/09/lakers-pursue-raptors-big-free-agency/).
Koloko would join a rotation that currently relies on Jaxson Hayes and Anthony Davis, with Jarred Vanderbilt also dealing with injury uncertainty. Though Koloko’s offensive game is raw, his defensive presence could fill a crucial gap for the Lakers as they aim to strengthen their roster.
