The NBA landscape shifted dramatically when the Dallas Mavericks orchestrated a blockbuster trade, sending Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers just before the February deadline.
The move sent shockwaves through the Western Conference and positioned the Lakers as serious contenders for another championship run.
With Doncic now in purple and gold, questions remain about what the Lakers need to complete their championship puzzle.
ESPN analyst Alan Hahn provided his answer during an appearance on “Get Up.”
“They can get a championship,” Hahn said. “But it’s not if Luka becomes a fitness model like everyone is so obsessed with. They can get a championship if they get a center, they need a big man. It’s as simple as that.”
.@alanhahn weighs in on if Luka can get LeBron and the Lakers a championship:
"They can get a championship If they get a center. They need a big man. It's as simple as that." pic.twitter.com/DqRirdOL88
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) June 13, 2025
The trade brought immediate star power to Los Angeles, with Doncic offering six years of youth advantage over Anthony Davis, who was dealt away to acquire the Slovenian superstar.
Doncic has already proven his ability to lead a Finals-caliber offense, bringing both elite scoring and playmaking to the Lakers.
However, losing Davis created a significant void in the frontcourt.
Backup Jaxson Hayes struggled to fill the gap, eventually falling out of the playoff rotation entirely with DNP-CD designations by the postseason’s end.
The Lakers need more than just size at center.
They require a defensive anchor who can protect the rim while contributing offensively.
With Doncic running the offense, having a reliable big man becomes crucial for pick-and-roll execution.
Doncic’s elite passing ability makes finding the right center even more important.
The Lakers need someone with athleticism and finishing skills, essentially a lob threat similar to what Doncic had in Dallas.
With their core now established, GM Rob Pelinka faces the task of building the perfect supporting cast.
The Lakers have entered win-now mode and cannot afford to waste this championship window with both Doncic and LeBron James on the roster.
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