The Lakers are targeting five centers—Nic Claxton, Robert Williams III, Walker Kessler, Brook Lopez, and Clint Capela—as they look to build a new core around Luka Doncic and add size and depth.
The Los Angeles Lakers are actively searching for a new starting center, and five names have emerged as key targets.
According to Anthony Irwin of ClutchPoints, the LA Lakers have shown interest in Nic Claxton, Robert Williams III, and Walker Kessler on the trade market.
They’re also monitoring Brook Lopez and Clint Capela as potential backup options once they secure their starting center.
“Sources close to the team reiterated that the internal plan is to trade for their starting center – sources say they’ve held conversations with other teams about Nic Claxton, Robert Williams, Walker Kessler and others – then, ideally, use the taxpayer midlevel on his backup – Brook Lopez and Clint Capela are the two names most often linked to the Lakers. It’s a solid plan that they’re considered likely to be able to execute,” Irwin reported.
The Lakers’ current focus is building the roster around Luka Doncic, who arrived in Los Angeles in early February.
Since the team wasn’t originally built with Doncic in mind, the front office is shifting gears to support their new star better.
To improve the center position, the Lakers have over $40 million in expiring contracts between Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Maxi Kleber.They also control one tradable first-round pick—either their 2031 or 2032 selection. These are the primary trade assets.
Austin Reaves could also become a trade chip if the right opportunity arises.
Because the Lakers won’t have cap space this offseason, acquiring a starting center will likely require a trade.
However, executing a deal will not be easy. Jovan Buha of The Athletic noted that acquiring Kessler, in particular, may be unrealistic due to the Utah Jazz’s high asking price and the Lakers’ limited draft capital.
