Chandler bought out by Suns, will reportedly sign with Lakers

Help appears to be on the way for the Los Angeles Lakers' undermanned center rotation.

The Phoenix Suns have bought out the remaining contract of veteran center Tyson Chandler, the team confirmed Sunday.

If Chandler clears waivers as expected, the Lakers will reportedly sign the former 36-year-old big man to be the primary backup to JaVale McGee, according to multiple reports.

Chandler and the Suns have had a mutual agreement in place regarding his buyout from the team pending his ability to find a new team in need of his services, per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. With a $13.6-million cap hit on the books for 2018-19, it's unlikely any team would claim Chandler off waivers, thus assuming the remainder of his salary.

The Suns signed Chandler to a four-year deal worth $52 million in 2015, but as the franchise's goals have shifted from fringe playoff contention to long-term success, there's been little need for the veteran. Frontcourt minutes have been re-allocated to younger players, such as the Suns' No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 draft, Deandre Ayton.

In 18 seasons in the NBA, Chandler has averaged 8.6 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. He played a pivotal role on the Dallas Mavericks' 2011 title-winning team, and was subsequently named the Defensive Player of the Year for the 2011-12 season, and an All-Star for the 2012-13 season.

Even as he nears the end of his playing career, Chandler has still put up respectable numbers since signing with the Suns. In 166 appearances, he has averaged 7.2 points and 9.5 rebounds in 25 minutes per game.