Overview

• The Lakers are actively pursuing Brooklyn's Nic Claxton and Dallas's Daniel Gafford to address their need for a top-tier center.
• Austin Reaves remains off-limits in trade discussions unless the return is a high-caliber big man, underscoring his value to the team.
• Los Angeles is leveraging assets like Dalton Knecht, expiring contracts, and a 2031 first-round pick in trade negotiations.
• The team recently parted ways with strength coach Ed Streit as part of a broader effort to overhaul its conditioning program.
• Free-agent options for centers are limited, with Indiana's Myles Turner deemed out of the Lakers' price range and Jaxson Hayes unlikely to return after a disappointing postseason.