Overview

• The Lakers are focused on acquiring a rim-protecting center to address deficiencies exposed during their first-round playoff exit.
• Nic Claxton of the Nets and Daniel Gafford of the Mavericks are the two most commonly linked trade targets for Los Angeles.
• The team has made it clear that Austin Reaves will not be included in any trade unless it secures a top-tier center.
• Los Angeles is leveraging assets such as their 2031 first-round pick, young wing Dalton Knecht, and expiring contracts to structure potential deals.
• In addition to trade efforts, the Lakers are exploring free agency and draft options while overhauling their conditioning staff under coach JJ Redick’s 'championship shape' mandate.