Lakers Listed as Potential Destination for $97M Center This Offseason
The Los Angeles Lakers are intensifying their push for the postseason this year with LeBron James and Luka Dončić leading the charge. Since acquiring Dončić, the team has looked significantly stronger and appears to be in a good position to contend in the Western Conference this season.
However, one area where the Lakers are lacking is in the frontcourt. After trading away star Anthony Davis, the team has struggled to fill that void in the interior.
The Lakers have managed to navigate the season without a true starting center, and they are expected to target one this offseason. Los Angeles will have numerous options, and they could explore the trade market to find a big man.
Zach Buckley from Bleacher Report highlighted some potential options for the Lakers, including Nic Claxton of the Brooklyn Nets, who could be a great fit for the team.
“The Lakers may need to convince Luka Dončić, who could become a free agent in 2026, to commit his future to the team. Their recruitment efforts should ramp up this summer as the team begins to build a supporting cast tailored to his strengths. Los Angeles also has a significant hole in the interior following the voided Mark Williams deal, which must be addressed quickly. The Lakers need a lob-finisher who can protect the rim, and both Claxton and (when healthy) Robinson can fill that role.”
Claxton was linked to the Lakers before the trade deadline, and the team could revisit him this offseason. The center provides the defense and rebounding the Lakers need.
This season, Claxton has averaged 10.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.5 blocks per game. He could be the lob threat the Lakers need next to Dončić and James, helping to complete their roster.
Claxton’s contract is also very cap-friendly, as it decreases each year. He will earn $25.3 million next season, followed by $23.1 million, and finally $20.9 million before entering free agency.
This type of player and contract would be an ideal target for the Lakers this offseason. While it may not be Claxton, he would make a lot of sense for the team.