The Los Angeles Lakers shocked the NBA by acquiring Luka Doncic, but that trade has left them with a major hole at the center position after sending Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks. With the trade deadline approaching, the Lakers still have significant assets, including their 2031 first-round pick and multiple pick swaps in 2026, 2028, and 2030. They have tradeable contracts in Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Jarred Vanderbilt for nearly $39 million, and Austin Reaves could join a deal if needed. Now, the Lakers seek a defensive anchor to complement Doncic and LeBron, with three primary targets in mind.
The first and most discussed option is Nic Claxton of the Brooklyn Nets. Claxton has been on the Lakers’ radar even before the Doncic trade, and acquiring him makes even more sense now. His $27.6 million salary is a reasonable match, and the Nets, who are in a rebuilding phase, may be willing to trade him for a package that includes expiring contracts and a pick swap. Claxton defends the rim and launches athletic lobs, making him an ideal fit with Luka and LeBron. His declining contract, set to drop to $20.9 million in 2027-28, also makes him an attractive long-term option.
Another top target is Myles Turner of the Indiana Pacers, valued for his shot-blocking and floor spacing. However, given his crucial role on a competitive team, Indiana has little interest in trading the 28-year-old. The Lakers would need to offer significant assets to land him, making a deal difficult. Still, his skill set would be a perfect fit if they can meet Indiana’s demands.
Other Potential Targets The Lakers Could Consider
If the Lakers cannot land Claxton or Turner, they could turn to Walker Kessler of the Utah Jazz. At just 23 years old, Kessler has been a brilliant defensive presence for Utah, and the Lakers have been linked to him multiple times this season. However, the Jazz reportedly have a high asking price, making a deal difficult unless the Lakers are willing to part with significant assets.
Another name in consideration is Clint Capela of the Atlanta Hawks. Capela is making $22.3 million this season, a number the Lakers can match with their available contracts. With the Hawks struggling and Onyeka Okongwu emerging as their long-term starting center, Capela could be available. He remains a strong rebounder and rim protector, which would provide the Lakers with a solid defensive presence.
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Lastly, Nikola Vucevic of the Chicago Bulls is an option if the Lakers choose to prioritize offense. Vucevic is in the right salary range, earning $20 million this season, but his defensive limitations make him a questionable fit. If the Lakers want to lean into an offense-first identity, Vucevic’s ability to space the floor could make him a viable option.
The Lakers have limited time before the trade deadline to make a move. Whether they land an elite defender or pivot to another center, they need to address their frontcourt issues to maximize their championship chances with Doncic and LeBron.
