Christian Wood, a California native, is headed to the Lakers next season.
EL SEGUNDO – The Los Angeles Lakers have officially signed forward/center Christian Wood, bringing in a local talent to bolster their roster for the upcoming season. The news was announced by Vice President of Basketball Operations and General Manager Rob Pelinka.
Wood recently showcased his skills with the Dallas Mavericks during the 2022-23 season, making significant contributions averaging 16.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.1 blocks in 67 games, including 17 starts. He displayed impressive shooting efficiency with a 51.5 percent field goal percentage and a 37.6 percent success rate from beyond the arc. Notably, Wood recorded 12 double-doubles and scored in double figures in 54 games, with 25 games exceeding the 20-point mark. Defensively, he also proved his ability to protect the rim, consistently blocking shots as he tallied at least one block in 42 games, with two games featuring an impressive five rejections.
Over his seven-year NBA career, Wood has played for various teams, including the Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets, Detroit Pistons, New Orleans Pelicans, Milwaukee Bucks, Charlotte Hornets, and Philadelphia 76ers. In his 289 appearances, he has maintained solid averages of 14.8 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 24.2 minutes per game. He has been a reliable shooter with a field goal percentage of 51.8 percent and a three-point shooting percentage of 37.9 percent.
Wood first showcased his skills at the college level during his two seasons at UNLV, where he averaged 10.4 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game across 63 total appearances, 34 of which were starts.
Upon learning of his signing with the Lakers, Wood expressed his excitement on Twitter, stating, “It’s always been my dream to be a laker.” [source: source]
It’s always been my dream to be a laker 💜💛
— 35 (@Chriswood_5) September 6, 2023
Wood’s arrival marks the Lakers’ fifth veteran acquisition of the summer, as they look to build on their successful run to the Western Conference finals led by superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Alongside Wood, the Lakers have also added Jaxson Hayes, Taurean Prince, Gabe Vincent, and Cam Reddish to their roster. Additionally, they have retained the services of free agents D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura.
Last season, the Lakers faced challenges without a true backup center following Mo Bamba’s injury. With the acquisitions of Hayes and Wood, the Lakers aim to alleviate the physical demands on Davis, allowing him to minimize his minutes at the center position.
[source: Information from The Associated Press]
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