The Los Angeles Lakers are in the spotlight as the NBA trade deadline quickly approaches. After the stunning trade that brought Luka Doncic to LA, the team now needs to focus on strengthening areas that remain a concern, particularly with Anthony Davis no longer in the lineup. While Doncic and LeBron James create a powerful duo, there are still questions about the team’s depth and defensive reliability. To stay competitive, the Lakers need a starting-caliber center and a versatile wing player. Despite having limited assets after their recent blockbuster trade, the Lakers are targeting realistic players to make a significant impact. As the trade deadline looms, these are some of the most likely players the Lakers might target:
1. Myles Turner
The Pacers’ center would immediately strengthen the Lakers’ defense and rebounding. Averaging 1.9 blocks per game, Turner is a premier shot-blocker, while his 40% shooting from deep would complement LeBron and Doncic’s style of play. A potential trade could involve sending Rui Hachimura, Christian Wood, and a 2031 first-round pick to Indiana, though the Pacers might push for Austin Reaves instead.
2. Nic Claxton
A younger, more versatile option, Claxton is a dynamic rim protector and capable of guarding multiple positions. His 1.2 blocks per game and efficient shooting from the field make him a solid fit next to LeBron and Doncic in a high-paced offense. The Lakers would need to offer Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and a 2031 first-round pick in exchange for Claxton.
3. Nikola Vucevic
Vucevic, known for his offensive skills, could bring a scoring presence to the Lakers. Averaging 19.9 points and 10.4 rebounds, Vucevic would add versatility to the Lakers’ offense with his ability to stretch the floor. A trade involving Hachimura, Vincent, and a first-round pick swap seems a reasonable offer.
4. Robert Williams
Williams would provide the Lakers with an energy boost and a strong defensive presence. His ability to contest shots, rebound, and set hard screens makes him an ideal addition to the Lakers’ frontcourt. The Lakers could offer Gabe Vincent, Christian Wood, and a 2031 first-round pick swap in exchange for Williams.
5. Steven Adams
Adams would add toughness and physicality, excelling at setting screens and dominating the boards. The proposed trade of Jarred Vanderbilt and Cam Reddish for Adams would help the Lakers strengthen their interior defense while giving LeBron and Doncic a reliable partner in the pick-and-roll game.
6. Jakob Poeltl
Poeltl is an underrated but well-rounded center with elite defensive IQ, shot-blocking, and rebounding. He would fit well alongside LeBron and Doncic in the Lakers’ system. The Lakers could send Rui Hachimura, Christian Wood, and a pick swap for Poeltl, who brings reliability on both ends of the floor.
7. Clint Capela
Known for his elite rebounding and rim protection, Capela would fill a major defensive void for the Lakers. His ability to protect the rim and rebound at a high level makes him an ideal addition. A trade for Capela might include Hachimura, Wood, and a 2031 pick swap.
8. Day’Ron Sharpe
Though not as well-known as other options, Sharpe offers potential as a physical presence in the paint and an energetic player. He could contribute right away in a backup role while developing into a bigger asset. The Lakers could trade Cam Reddish and a 2031 first-round pick for Sharpe, adding a high-upside, low-cost piece to their roster.
Each of these players would help address the Lakers’ immediate needs while complementing their existing stars.
