The Los Angeles Lakers expect to pick up center Robert Sacre’s veteran-minimum team option, league sources told RealGM.

Sacre — solidifying himself as a viable reserve big man and defensive presence in three NBA seasons — has lost 15 pounds since the end of the Lakers’ season. He is under a guaranteed option at $981,348 for next season, and there’s a chance the Lakers could look into reworking a longer-term deal with the 26-year-old.

In 67 games this season, Sacre averaged 4.6 points and 3.5 rebounds a night. Despite roster turnover, Sacre’s maintained a spirit and defensive focus to benefit the Lakers on and off the court. During the 2013-14 season, Sacre’s former coach, Mike D’Antoni, called Sacre the Lakers’ hardest worker and best defender.

Sacre was the 60th pick in the 2012 NBA draft to the Lakers.