Lakers Show Interest in Potential Trade for $80 Million Center
The Los Angeles Lakers are on the lookout for a new starting center. On February 2, Rob Pelinka traded Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks for Luka Doncic, leaving the team with a gap in their frontcourt.
As reported by Michael Grange from SportsNet Canada, the Lakers have shown interest in Jakob Poeltl. However, the Toronto Raptors are reportedly holding out for a steep price, potentially asking for a first-round pick in exchange for the 29-year-old center.
“The Lakers have inquired about him, but it seems the Raptors are hoping for an offer that includes a first-round pick (likely with some protection), and the only pick the Lakers have available is a 2031 first they have held onto for years,” Grange said.
The Lakers were reportedly searching for a center before trading Davis, and now with the All-Star gone, Pelinka’s urgency has increased. Poeltl would be a solid, low-usage center who could immediately contribute to the Lakers’ lineup. He still has two seasons remaining on his four-year, $80 million deal.
This season, Poeltl has appeared in 44 games, averaging 14.4 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 2.9 assists. His strong performance on a rebuilding Raptors team suggests he could become a key player on a more talented Lakers squad.
LeBron James Plans to Stay with Lakers
Following the Lakers’ trade for Doncic, there was speculation about LeBron James’ future. LeBron had a strong bond with Davis, with whom he won a championship. The addition of Doncic, who has a similar style of play, raised questions about how the two would fit together.
However, according to Chris Haynes, LeBron is committed to staying with the Lakers for the time being.
“Sources close to the situation confirm that LeBron James plans to remain with the Los Angeles Lakers beyond the February 6 trade deadline,” Haynes reported on X. “Despite the Lakers pulling off one of the biggest trades in recent history, LeBron plans to stay with the team… The Lakers appreciated the professionalism shown by Klutch Points CEO Rich Paul and LeBron during this process.”
LeBron holds a player option for next season. He will likely either opt into the final year or negotiate a new deal, depending on whether his partnership with Doncic can lead to another championship.
LeBron May Extend His Playing Career with Lakers
On a recent episode of ESPN’s NBA Today, veteran reporter Dave McMenamin speculated that LeBron could extend his playing career after the addition of Doncic.
“LeBron had no intention of leaving the Lakers before Thursday’s trade deadline,” McMenamin said. “He’s going to stay for the rest of the season to play alongside Luka Doncic. After that, he has a player option that he is expected to exercise, but there’s a possibility he will renegotiate a new contract, and this move could extend LeBron’s career. It’s not certain that next season will be his last in the NBA.”
At 40 years old, LeBron remains a top-15 player in the league. If he can find chemistry with Doncic, the Lakers could be contenders for championships in the years to come.