Lakers get trade price for Mavericks' $54M athletic rim-runner to reunite with Luka Doncic image
The Los Angeles Lakers have been one of the most active teams this offseason, but their work is far from over. Even after adding several new faces, Los Angeles still has significant roster needs to address before the start of the season.
Much of that stems from losing multiple members of last year's starting lineup. One of the Lakers' biggest priorities remains adding another big man to strengthen their frontcourt.
“The Lakers are still monitoring the market for big men, team sources told The Athletic," The Athletic's Dan Woike reported. "They traded for Walker Kessler and signed Kevon Looney to play center, and Mamukelashvili can play the position, too. The team could address the position either by trade or signing, like with potentially adding Thybulle. The roster is currently at full capacity."
One player who has been available throughout the offseason is Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford, a familiar face for Luka Doncic after the two helped lead Dallas to the NBA Finals together. NBA insider Brett Siegel recently revealed that Gafford has been on the trade market all summer.
“He’s been available all offseason,” Siegel posted.
Gafford would be a major addition for the Lakers, who are still searching for frontcourt depth. His chemistry with Doncic is already well established, making him an intriguing trade target. However, Los Angeles would likely have to part with at least a first-round pick to acquire him.
“The Mavericks’ current asking price in a trade involving Daniel Gafford is a protected 1st-round pick. Gafford is under contract through 2029 making $18.1 million annually. Dallas’ big rotation next season could end up being Dereck Lively II, Morez Johnson Jr. and Moussa Cissé,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.
The Lakers have also been linked to Gafford's teammate, P.J. Washington. While Gafford has generated more trade buzz, Los Angeles arguably has a greater need at power forward than at center.
Gafford is currently playing on a $54 million contract with the Mavericks. The Lakers could absorb that deal if they move some unwanted contracts in a trade. With Los Angeles still needing to trim its roster, a move for Gafford could help the team address multiple needs at once.
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