Lakers News: Christian Wood’s health crisis forces the Lakers on a recruiting offensive

There is no way Christian Wood returns to the parquet floor before December or January. His latest health updates are more concerning than the Lakers’ current roster dilemma. He has already missed the last two months of last season due to arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. Since then, the 29-year-old center has been in rehab to get the green light for his fitness. However, things might have taken a strange turn.

A reported second procedure on Woods’ same knee has come to light. Two surgeries in seven months – certainly not part of his plans for 2024. This means he will once again be a limited contributor for the Lakers next season. Christian Wood exercised his $3 million option, but his recovery and return seem more unlikely than ever! Given the need of the moment, Rob Pelinka is undoubtedly looking for a new hope. With a whole host of rookies on the roster, the Lakers’ hopes are not yet dimmed. But who will be Wood’s temporary replacement?

According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, the Lakers’ front office “take a look at it” 26 year old Kylor Kelley. The former NBA G League star and 7-footer from Oregon State is the newest addition to the Purple and Gold. And well, he’s most likely the one who fits into Christian Wood’s shoes. He also plays center, so there’s a good chance we’ll see a lot of Kylor Kelley for at least the next two to three months.

In the most unfortunate scenario, Christian Wood only started a single game for the Lakers last season. And despite playing 50 games, he was only able to secure 6.9 points per game. Well, the record isn’t promising, but his presence on the pitch was crucial in many situations. But with uncertainty looming, newcomers Kylor Kelley, Dalton Knechtor Quincy Olivari could run the show. With particular attention to Kelley, he could have the potential to turn things around for Rob Pelinka’s guys.

Who is Kylor Kelley, the possible replacement for Christian Wood?

Kylor Kelley, Oregon State’s shot-blocking machine, is the 7-footer the Lakers rely on. He will most likely take Christian Wood’s place as center. Therefore, a lot of responsibility falls on Kelley’s shoulders. Wood’s alleged successor has been leading the action in the NBA G League since 2021. But before that, he made a name for himself in college basketball. In 2018, he had a school-record nine blocks, along with 10 points and nine rebounds, in an 82-67 win over Pepperdine. At the end of the season, he ranked second nationally and led the Pac-12 with 3.35 blocks per game, setting a school record. He averaged 7.7 points and five rebounds and earned a spot on the Pac-12 All-Defensive Team.

Kelly also played for the London Lions in the 2021-22 BBL season. Kylor Kelley was also with the Bakken Bears of the Danish Basketligaen. The following year, he returned to the United States to be part of the NBA G League, playing for teams such as the Austin Spurs, Raptors 905 and Calgary Surge. Well, the stats that Kylor Kelley presents make his performance promising for the Lakers. So we can hope that the team can put their trust in him as they aim for their 18th title this season.

With Christian Wood in the dark, the LA Lakers are under pressure. Additionally, rookie debuts are always full of excitement and skepticism. Kylor Kelley will also have doubting eyes looking at Hooper. But there’s always a spark of optimism waiting to be explored, and Kelley could be the one.

What do you think? Let us know in the comments.