By admin 
Lakers Add Defensive Power with Jemison to Bolster Frontcourt Rotation
Lakers Address Center Depth with Trey Jemison Signing
The Los Angeles Lakers have officially signed free agent center Trey Jemison, making a strategic move to enhance their frontcourt depth. To clear space on the roster, the Lakers waived guard Quincy Olivari. Jemison, recognized for his gritty, hard-working style of play, is expected to bring a physical presence and defensive versatility to a Lakers team in need of support at the center position.
This addition follows Jemison’s recent release from the New Orleans Pelicans, who shifted their focus to developing rookie first-round pick Yves Missi. For the Lakers, Jemison’s signing reflects a calculated effort to reinforce the roster as the team pushes for a deep playoff run.
A Record-Breaking Moment Highlights Jemison’s Potential
Jemison’s most impressive NBA moment came during his stint with the Memphis Grizzlies last season. In a standout game against the Washington Wizards, he scored 24 points—the highest single-game point total ever recorded by a former University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) player. This milestone showcased Jemison’s ability to contribute offensively when given the opportunity, complementing his defensive strengths.
Praised for Impacting Winning
Former Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins praised Jemison for the “little things that impact winning.” Jenkins highlighted Jemison’s effectiveness in setting screens and rolling to the basket, creating valuable scoring opportunities for his teammates. “I thought he did a really good job of screening and rolling,” Jenkins noted, emphasizing how Jemison’s chemistry with the guards opened up the offense. His focus on team play rather than personal stats aligns well with the Lakers’ championship mindset.
Opportunity to Shine in Los Angeles
LeBron James recently commented on the Lakers’ ongoing efforts to improve the roster, and Jemison’s addition aligns perfectly with that goal. The Lakers are providing Jemison with the chance to prove himself on one of the NBA’s biggest stages.
If Jemison can replicate the form he showed in Memphis and consistently deliver strong defensive play, he could evolve into a vital piece of the Lakers’ rotation. His grit and willingness to do the hard work may be exactly what the team needs to elevate its performance this season.