Lakers Explore Multi-Team Trades to Acquire Starting Center Amid Offseason Cap Constraints

The Los Angeles Lakers are prioritizing the acquisition of a starting-caliber center this offseason to complement Luka Doncic and address a critical roster need exposed during recent playoff runs. Daniel Gafford of the Dallas Mavericks, who fits the Lakers' desired profile as an athletic rim protector and lob threat, is a prime candidate, but direct trade negotiations with Dallas may be complicated due to past dealings involving Doncic. A proposed workaround involves a three-team trade including the Orlando Magic and Brooklyn Nets, allowing the Lakers to acquire Gafford without giving up draft picks or engaging directly with Dallas. Nic Claxton of the Brooklyn Nets is also considered a highly realistic and valuable target, offering defensive versatility and offensive fit alongside Doncic, though his contract complexity could pose challenges. Other potential options like Deandre Ayton have been suggested but come with concerns over fit and future asset cost. Concurrently, the Lakers must address contract extensions for key players such as Austin Reaves, whose team-friendly deal may soon require a significant upgrade, complicating the team's salary cap and roster-building efforts.