Lakers center puzzle: Ayton leads but the Warriors make a run at halfway, 39-year-old Horford becomes X factor

With the opening of the free market, the Los Angeles Lakers' center reinforcement plan suddenly contracted: Brooke Lopez is in love with the Clippers in the same city, Clint Capela returns to Houston's arms, and on the original "three-choice-one" list, only DeAndre Aiton's name is shining brightly. However, the Lakers' management's chess game is far from settled - according to well-known reporters Dan Woike and Sam Amick, the Purple and Gold Army are simultaneously conducting a "serious assessment" of 39-year-old Al Horford.

Ayton's strategic value to the Lakers is self-evident. He is the leader of the 2018 draft and shares the personal connections of super agent Bill Duffy. More importantly, Ayton has both top pick-and-roll finishing ability and rebounding hardness. During his time with the Trail Blazers last season, his average of 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds and 1.0 blocks per game, and his decisive attitude of voluntarily giving up $10 million for leaving the team, all prove that he adapts to the Lakers' tactical needs and desire to compete for the championship.

But the Lakers are not without hidden worries. The Warriors have cleared Kevin Looney's salary space and lead the Ayton battle with a strong lead. Indiana Pacers are also eyeing them after losing Miles Turner. The Lakers' "patience assessment" at this moment is like a big bet - if Ayton is intercepted halfway, can the team's plan B support the backbone of the penalty area?

39-year-old Horford unexpectedly became a potential variable. At the Celtics last season, he still contributed 9 points, 6.2 rebounds and a 36.3% three-point shooting percentage. Although his rich playoff experience, high-position support and spatial attributes cannot replace Ayton's athletic talent, it provides the Lakers with another solution to the problem. The Warriors simultaneously examined Horford's movements, which further implies that the veteran may become the "X factor" that stirred up the inside of the West District.

The Lakers management is standing at the intersection: is it betting on Ayton, who is 26 years old and has a talent that is visible to the naked eye, and bears the risk of bidding? Or turn to the experienced Horford and seek a more secure combat power? The answer to this multiple-choice question is not only related to the team's inside depth in the new season, but also affects the reconstruction of the entire Western Conference's competitive landscape. The signing patience of the

The Purple Gold Legion's patience is being examined under a magnifying glass - the countdown of the free market is ticking, leaving the Lakers with little time to hesitate.