Andre Drummond to start in Lakers debut on Wednesday

The two-time All-Star participated in his first practice with the team on Tuesday.

From NBA.com News Services

March 30, 2021 8:54 PM

Two-time All-Star Andre Drummond will start in his Los Angeles Lakers debut against the Milwaukee Bucks tomorrow, coach Frank Vogel confirmed on Tuesday.

Wednesday on ESPN: Bucks vs. Lakers (10 ET)

Vogel on Drummond: “He’s going to start tomorrow night.”

— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) March 30, 2021

The Lakers signed Drummond on Sunday after he agreed to a contract buyout with the Cleveland Cavaliers last week.

Drummond, who will replace Marc Gasol in the Lakers’ starting lineup, averaged 17.5 points, 13.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists over 25 starts with the Cavs this season. He hasn’t played since Feb. 12, when Cleveland benched him to give more playing time to youngster Jarrett Allen.

“The level of excitement for me is at an all-time high,” Drummond said after his first practice with the team on Tuesday.

Drummond: "The level of excitement for me is at an all-time high."

He said he felt “incredible” physically in practice today and that he “wasn’t winded.” He added that he's made sure he was in great shape by working really hard since he’s been sitting.

— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) March 30, 2021

Nothing like that first day with the #LakeShow pic.twitter.com/GvMsaHWduE

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) March 30, 2021

Vogel said he has had discussions with Gasol and Montrezl Harrell about Drummond joining the roster, and now the starting lineup. “We’re going to need all three of our centers,” Vogel said.

Frank Vogel asked about Marc Gasol's handling the news of Drummond starting: “All I can say is that he's loved here … these guys respect him so much … he’s been a true pro. We’re going to need all three of our centers."

— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) March 30, 2021

Drummond should help the Lakers fill the void created by the absences of injured stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis, who both remain out indefinitely.