Following the departure of Anthony Davis in the blockbuster deal that brought Luka Dončić to Los Angeles, the Lakers now face a critical hole at the center position heading into the offseason.
With free agency on the horizon, one respected NBA analyst believes the team’s solution may lie on the trade market. According to a recent offseason breakdown, the Lakers could make a major move by targeting Portland Trail Blazers center Robert Williams III, while also pursuing veteran big man Brook Lopez through the midlevel exception.
“Yes, the Lakers would be bringing in two starting centers, but Williams has played 40 or fewer games in three straight seasons,” the analyst explained. “Because the Lakers are over the first apron and not allowed to take back more money in a trade, any package for Williams would start with some combination of Vincent, Jarred Vanderbilt and/or Shake Milton.”
When healthy, Williams is widely regarded as one of the top rim protectors in the league and was named to the All-Defensive Second Team in the 2021–22 season.
Another intriguing possibility has emerged, as reports suggest Portland may be working toward a buyout with center Deandre Ayton, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. If Ayton is willing to accept a minimum deal, the Lakers could be among the frontrunners to sign him, with several league observers naming Los Angeles a likely landing spot.
