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Lakers Intensify Search for Center, Eyeing Trade and Draft Options

Los Angeles explores acquiring Nic Claxton, Daniel Gafford, or Jakob Poeltl while evaluating draft prospects to address urgent frontcourt needs.

Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers dribbles the ball against Jakob Poeltl #19 of the Toronto Raptors at the Wells Fargo Center on March 31, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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Overview

  • The Lakers are prioritizing a foundational center to complement Luka Doncic and LeBron James after their first-round playoff exit.
  • Brooklyn's Nic Claxton, Dallas' Daniel Gafford, and Toronto's Jakob Poeltl are the primary trade targets under consideration.
  • Austin Reaves is deemed tradeable only for a high-caliber center, with the team safeguarding him from less significant deals.
  • The Lakers are also evaluating draft prospects like UConn's Samson Johnson, who offers defensive potential and rim protection.
  • Organizational changes include the departure of strength coach Ed Streit as part of a revamped conditioning strategy.