Overview

• Los Angeles has centered its offseason strategy on adding a starting-caliber center to shore up interior defense and rebounding.
• The Lakers are set to formally offer Brook Lopez and Clint Capela contracts under the $5.7 million taxpayer midlevel exception.
• League insiders report rival teams are bracing for the Lakers to challenge other suitors for Lopez’s services.
• Front office discussions continue on a potential trade for the Hawks’ Onyeka Okongwu as a younger big-man alternative.
• Deandre Ayton’s recent buyout has emerged as a secondary option to reinforce the team’s frontcourt depth.