The Los Angeles Lakers are entering an important offseason with one main goal: upgrade at center. After a first round playoff exit, it’s clear they need a rim protector and rebounder. But recent news suggests their top target may not be an option anymore so they’ll have to look elsewhere in free agency or trades.
Lakers’ Center Problems This Season
For most of the 2024-2025 season, the Lakers were a mess at center. They had Jaxson Hayes, Alex Len, Christian Koloko and Trey Jemison III – none of whom were able to provide the impact needed to compete at the highest level.
Hayes showed flashes of being a second string player, Len was a non factor, Koloko and Jemison were restricted by their two way contracts. The lack of a true starting center became evident in their playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves where Rudy Gobert exposed their weaknesses on rebounding and rim protection.
With LeBron James and Luka Doncic leading the way, the Lakers need a center who can anchor the defense, rebound and stretch the floor when needed. Unfortunately their top choice for that role may not be available anymore.
Myles Turner: The Dream That Might Slip Away
For years, Myles Turner of the Indiana Pacers has been linked to the Lakers as a solution at center. 6’11” Turner is a dominant shot blocker and rim protector, averaging over 2 blocks a game for most of his career. He’s also developed into a legit 3 point threat, stretching defenses and creating space for his teammates.
Turner was set to be a free agent this summer, and while he was going to command more than the $19.9 million he made this season, the Lakers were interested in him. But according to NBA insider Jake Fischer, those hopes may be dashed.
“Rising expectation, league sources say, is that he’ll be staying in the Hoosier State,” Fischer wrote.
This leaves the Lakers scrambling to find other options as Turner would have been a perfect fit for their system.
Limited Options in Free Agency
Without Turner on the market, the Lakers’ options in free agency are limited. Unless LeBron James opts out of his contract and takes a big pay cut (which seems unlikely) the Lakers will only have the $5.7 million taxpayer mid-level exception to offer free agents.
Veteran centers like Brook Lopez and Clint Capela could be targets, but convincing them to join the Lakers for such a small salary might be tough. Both have proven track records as defensive anchors and rebounders, but will likely look elsewhere for more money.
Trade Market Targets: Claxton and Gafford
If the Lakers can’t get a top tier center in free agency, their best chance may come via trade. According to Los Angeles Times beat writer Dan Woike, the Lakers are currently looking at two centers on the trade market: Nic Claxton of the Brooklyn Nets and Daniel Gafford of the Dallas Mavericks.
Nic Claxton
Claxton has become one of the most athletic big men in the league, known for his ability to protect the rim and finish above the basket. He doesn’t stretch the floor with outside shooting, but his energy and defensive presence are valuable.
Daniel Gafford
Gafford is another option. He’s a high energy player who excels at finishing lobs, rebounding, and defending the paint. Like Claxton, he doesn’t provide much floor spacing, but his physicality and motor could fit well with LeBron and Doncic. It will cost assets, but it’s their best option to address the center position without breaking the bank.
What’s Next for the Lakers?
The Lakers’ offseason agenda is clear: find a starting center who can defend and rebound. Missing out on Myles Turner is a bummer but it forces them to get creative in free agency or through trades.
If they can get Nic Claxton or Daniel Gafford, they’ll be better. But not addressing this need could be trouble for next season.
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