Bigs Reath, Landale potential trade candidates

Australian Boomers frontcourt teammates Duop Reath and Jock Landale are likely trade candidates as the NBA's February 2025 deadline approaches, with both big men potentially on the move.

Portland's crowded frontcourt creates opportunity

Reath, who impressed during his 2023 rookie campaign with the Portland Trail Blazers, appearing in 68 games, finds himself caught in a logjam at the centre position. The Blazers' loaded frontcourt features starter DeAndre Ayton, 2024 No.7 pick Donovan Clingan, and the recently returned Robert Williams III.

Despite Portland's enviable depth at centre, their struggling 9-19 record (third-worst in the Western Conference) suggests they may pivot toward being dealers at the deadline, potentially to improve their odds in what's projected to be a talent-rich 2025 NBA Draft.

Reath's limited court time this season — just 14 games averaging six minutes — belies his potential value to a contender. His size and three-point shooting capability make him an intriguing trade target. NBA insider Jake Fischer of the Marc Stein Substack reports that Reath is "on the Lakers' wishlist of bigs," with his team-friendly $2.2 million contract for 2025-26 adding to his appeal. If Reath joins the Lakers he will follow in the footsteps of fellow Australian big man Andrew Bogut, who played for the Lakers in 2017-18.

Houston's centre surplus

Meanwhile, in Houston, Jock Landale finds himself in a similar situation amid the Rockets' centre rotation. Alperen Sengun has established himself as an elite talent at the big man position, putting together a breakout season with averages of 18 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists per game.

The health of both Trans-Tasman centres Steven Adams and Landale has created a roster crunch, with head coach Ime Udoka showing a clear preference for Adams in the backup role. The statistics tell the story: Landale averages a respectable four points, three rebounds, and one assist when Adams is unavailable. However, those numbers plummet to less than one point and one rebound in games where both centres are active.

Houston's roster depth is becoming a tantalising target for other teams, making Landale an attractive piece in a larger deal. The remaining $16 million of his four-year $32 million contract is not guaranteed beyond this season, making him particularly moveable in potential trades.