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8h ago

Lakers Weigh Lauri Markkanen Deal to Bolster Center Position

Their salary-cap situation forces the Lakers to rely on draft picks as primary trade assets with Utah

Jaren Jackson Jr. #13 of the Memphis Grizzlies handles the ball against Myles Turner #33 of the Indiana Pacers during the game at FedExForum on January 29, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee.
Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks handles the ball defended by Lauri Markkanen #23 of the Utah Jazz during the second half at Madison Square Garden on January 01, 2025 in New York City.
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Overview

  • The Lakers are seeking to strengthen their center spot after trading Anthony Davis for Luka Doncic left a significant interior gap
  • Los Angeles is exploring a trade for Lauri Markkanen that could send Rui Hachimura, Dalton Knecht, Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber and its unprotected 2031 first-round pick to Utah
  • The roster sits $35.2 million over the NBA salary cap and remains $4.4 million below the first tax apron, limiting free-agent flexibility
  • Pacers free agent Myles Turner is expected to command around $30 million per season, making a direct signing unfeasible without major salary moves
  • Jaxson Hayes has publicly reaffirmed his commitment to the Lakers by exercising his player option for next season