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Lakers Trade IMMINENT… LA Landing Another Center | Los Angeles Lakers News

By Tony • July 4, 2025 • 4 min read

Los Angeles Lakers Shift Focus to Backup Center After Signing Deandre Ayton

The Los Angeles Lakers have significantly altered their roster-building strategy following the blockbuster signing of Deandre Ayton as their starting center, according to a recent video analysis breaking down the team’s next steps. With Ayton now anchoring the frontcourt, the Lakers are pivoting their attention to securing a reliable backup center, leveraging their robust trade assets and free agency opportunities to bolster their depth.

Lakers’ Trade Assets Provide Flexibility

The Lakers are well-positioned in the trade market, boasting a wealth of assets to facilitate deals. These include a 2031 first-round pick, four future first-round pick swaps, a 2032 second-round pick, and expiring contracts such as those of Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, and Shake Milton. Additionally, young talents like Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell, along with a biannual exception worth approximately $5.1 million, give the Lakers significant flexibility to pursue their targets.

Backup Center Targets: Free Agency

The Lakers are actively exploring both the free agency and trade markets to address their need for a backup big man. In free agency, two names stand out:

  • Al Horford: At 39, Horford remains a highly effective veteran, drawing strong interest from the Lakers, who face competition from teams like the Golden State Warriors. Horford’s 36.3% three-point shooting and versatile defensive skills—rim protection and switchability—make him an attractive option. The Lakers could offer him their biannual exception, valued at around $5.1 million, to secure his services.
  • Chris Boucher: Another versatile option, Boucher brings rim protection, rebounding, three-point shooting, and switchability on defense. His skill set aligns well with the Lakers’ need for a dynamic backup who can complement Ayton’s game.

Trade Market Targets

On the trade front, the Lakers have been linked to several promising centers, each bringing unique strengths and considerations:

  • Nick Richards: Considered an attainable target, Richards excels as a rebounder and rim protector, offering a dependable option to anchor the second unit.
  • Robert Williams III: Despite his elite skills—offensive rebounding, shot-blocking, alley-oop finishing, and switchable defense—Williams’ durability is a major concern, as he has averaged just 33-34 games per season.
  • Onyeka Okongwu: While a talented young center, acquiring Okongwu could be cost-prohibitive for the Lakers, potentially requiring D’Angelo Russell and multiple draft picks—a steep price after already landing Ayton.
  • Wendell Carter Jr. and Goga Bitadze: Both from the Orlando Magic, these players intrigue the Lakers. Bitadze, in particular, stands out for his reliability and rim protection, making him a strong candidate for the backup role.
  • Jalen Smith: A speculative target from the Chicago Bulls, Smith offers durability, three-point shooting, rim protection, and the ability to finish lobs, making him an intriguing fit for the Lakers’ system.

Strategic Outlook and Top Targets

The analysis ranks Al Horford as the top free-agent target due to his proven production and fit, while Goga Bitadze and Jalen Smith are highlighted as the preferred trade targets for their reliability and skill sets. With Ayton now in place, the Lakers are no longer desperate for a starting center, allowing them to focus on finding a dependable backup who can protect the rim, space the floor, or stay healthy to support the team’s championship aspirations.

This strategic shift has put the Lakers in a stronger position, with a clear path to building a well-rounded roster capable of competing at the highest level. As the team navigates the free agency and trade markets, their wealth of assets and clear priorities position them to make savvy moves that could elevate their contender status in the NBA.

For further details on the Lakers’ plans and potential roster moves, fans can stay updated through ongoing coverage on platforms like grok.com and x.com.