Lakers Eye Defensive Upgrade: Who’s the Missing Piece?

With a championship core built around LeBron James and Luka Dončić, the Los Angeles Lakers’ offseason focus has shifted squarely to upgrading their defense. Following a disappointing first-round playoff exit, both insiders and fans agree: the Lakers need a versatile defensive stopper to turn their contender status into a legitimate title threat.

Top Defensive Targets

Rim Protection and Frontcourt Power

The Lakers were outmatched in the paint during last season’s playoffs, spotlighting the need for a stronger inside defensive presence. Key center targets being discussed include:

• Clint Capela: Known for rebounding, rim protection, and pick-and-roll defense, Capela is seen as a possible free-agent or sign-and-trade acquisition. He would immediately boost the Lakers’ interior defense and provide a needed lob threat for Luka.
• Nic Claxton: Hailed for his ability to guard multiple positions and provide elite rim protection. Trading for Claxton could align the Lakers’ defense with successful past championship formulas.
• Jarrett Allen and Isaiah Stewart: Trade proposals for these established defensive bigs have been floated to help shore up the Lakers’ paint presence and rebounding issues.

Perimeter Defense and Versatile Wing Options

While the frontcourt needs are obvious, the Lakers are also seeking a defensive ace on the wing:

• Herb Jones: The New Orleans Pelicans’ defensive specialist is described as an “ideal fit” for the Lakers. Jones’ ability to guard multiple positions and his willingness to do the “dirty work” would lighten the load on both LeBron and Luka.
• De’Anthony Melton: Capable of both perimeter defense and contributing offensively, Melton is being considered despite recovering from a torn ACL.
• Gary Payton II: Valued for his championship experience and tenacity on defense, Payton II is also a candidate to fill the Lakers’ perimeter need.
• Marcus Smart: A former Defensive Player of the Year, Smart is thought to be a potential low-cost target if he becomes available via buyout.
• Josh Okogie: Recently released, Okogie has drawn attention thanks to his defensive reputation and could provide affordable depth.

Trade Rumors and Roster Strategies

Front office discussions reportedly aim to model after other recent NBA champions by balancing playmaking with multiple high-level defenders. A proposed ideal lineup would feature:

PositionPotential UpgradePoint GuardLuka DončićWing DefenderKentavious Caldwell-Pope (KCP), Herb Jones, or De’Anthony MeltonSmall ForwardLeBron JamesPower ForwardHerb Jones or Defensive ForwardCenterNic Claxton/Clint Capela

The Missing Piece?

The consensus among analysts: a combination of a defensive big man (such as Capela or Claxton) and a tenacious perimeter defender (like Herb Jones or De’Anthony Melton) could transform the Lakers’ fortunes and maximize the remaining championship window for their superstar duo.

The coming weeks will be crucial as the Lakers navigate trade talks, monitor the market for buyouts, and attempt to balance cost with much-needed defensive impact. If the front office secures even one of these coveted defensive upgrades, Los Angeles could be right back in the title conversation.