Lakers’ Top Offseason Trade Target Revealed
Lakers' Top Offseason Trade Target Revealed
The Los Angeles Lakers are entering a pivotal offseason with their eyes firmly set on addressing their center position. After years of temporary solutions in the frontcourt, the organization has made it clear that securing a long-term option at center is their top priority this summer.
Rob Pelinka and the Lakers’ front office have already begun exploring the trade market for several notable big men who could complement Anthony Davis in the paint.
League sources indicate that Brooklyn’s Nic Claxton has emerged as the Lakers’ primary trade target, though Robert Williams III and Walker Kessler are also on their radar. The team appears to be implementing a two-pronged approach to solving their center issues – trading for a starter while potentially using their taxpayer midlevel exception to bring in a veteran backup like Brook Lopez or Clint Capela. The challenge, however, is that the Lakers’ well-known need for a center has put them in a difficult negotiating position as other teams recognize their urgency to make a move.
Los Angeles Lakers Seek A Long-Term Center Urgently
The Lakers’ front office has identified center as their most pressing roster need heading into the 2025-26 season. After their search intensified following Mark Williams’ failed physical, the team signed Alex Len as a temporary solution but continues to explore more impactful options.
Several potential targets have emerged in the Lakers’ search. Myles Turner remains a prominent option, posting impressive numbers of 15.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game while shooting nearly 40% from three-point range in 2024-25. The Lakers previously passed on Turner, a decision that many NBA insiders continue to question.
Other centers reportedly on the Lakers’ radar include:
- Nic Claxton: Elite rim protector with developing offensive skills
- Clint Capela: Veteran with strong rebounding and defensive presence
- Jonas Valančiūnas: Skilled low-post scorer and reliable rebounder
- Brook Lopez: Floor-spacing big with shot-blocking ability
The timing of any potential deal will be crucial. The Lakers have previously overpaid when desperate, as seen in the Russell Westbrook situation. However, they’ve also demonstrated patience in acquiring wings like Dorian Finney-Smith without sacrificing first-round picks.
Finding the right frontcourt partner alongside their current stars remains a delicate balancing act between addressing immediate needs and maintaining future flexibility.
A graduate from the University of Texas, Anthony Amador has been credentialed to cover the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and high school games all over the Lone Star State. Currently, his primary beats are the NBA, MLB, NFL and UFC.
