In the offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers reportedly want to add a new center with a bigger vertical lob threat, a two-way athletic wing, and a secondary playmaker to pair with Luka Doncic.
The Los Angeles Lakers were eliminated from the 2026 Playoffs in the second round after being swept 4-0 by the Oklahoma City Thunder. The team is now heading into a busy offseason with several uncertainties, including eight free agents on the roster.
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Entering their second summer since acquiring Luka Doncic, the Lakers are expected to continue building the team around him.
According to The Athletic, the franchise has promised Doncic a roster filled with players who complement his style, similar to the balanced group he led to the NBA Finals in Dallas in 2024 before his move to Los Angeles.
The Lakers' key priorities remain unchanged, per the same report. They are seeking improved center play and vertical lob threats similar to Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively II, ideally with fewer injury concerns.
They also want versatile two-way wings who can bring athleticism and defensive energy while contributing as reliable shooters. In addition, the team is looking to add a long-term secondary playmaker alongside Luka.
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The Athletic also reports that the Lakers still believe they can meaningfully upgrade the roster if they retain both LeBron James and Austin Reaves this summer, even if the path to doing so is complicated.
Los Angeles is expected to be active on the trade market. The franchise can offer its 2031 and 2033 first-round picks, along with the No. 25 selection in the 2026 NBA Draft.
The Lakers have previously shown interest in New Orleans wings Trey Murphy III and Herb Jones, though it remains unclear whether either player is realistically available.
They could also explore restricted free agents such as Peyton Watson and Tari Eason, despite injury concerns.
At center, Walker Kessler and Jalen Duren are expected to stay with their current teams, leaving potential free-agent targets like Mitchell Robinson and Robert Williams III. Re-signing Jaxson Hayes is also an option.
One of the Lakers' main issues this season has been a lack of athleticism and defensive presence – problems the front office aimed to address even before the February 5 trade deadline, when their only addition was sharpshooter Luke Kennard.
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