The Los Angeles Lakers are navigating a pivotal moment in their evolution - one that blends the final chapters of a legend with the rise of a new franchise cornerstone. With LeBron James still suiting up at age 41, the Lakers are balancing the present with the future.
That future now runs through Luka Dončić, the kind of generational playmaker teams dream of building around. And while Austin Reaves continues to be a steady, adaptable backcourt piece, the Lakers’ next move is clear: bolster the frontcourt and give Dončić the interior support he needs.
Let’s break down three realistic targets the Lakers could pursue to solidify their center rotation - a crucial piece in any team built around a high-usage creator like Dončić.
Robert Williams III - Portland Trail Blazers
The Lakers have long been linked to Robert Williams III, and it’s easy to see why. Even in a limited role this season - averaging 6.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in under 16 minutes per game - Williams has continued to make his presence felt on the defensive end. He’s not a volume scorer, but that’s not what L.A. needs from him.
Williams thrives as a rim protector with elite mobility. He covers ground quickly, challenges shots at the rim, and gives perimeter defenders the freedom to press up without worrying about what’s behind them. That kind of defensive insurance is invaluable when your offense is orchestrated by Dončić, who can carry the scoring load but needs a reliable anchor behind him to keep the defense honest.
The biggest question with Williams is health - durability has been a concern throughout his career. But he’s been available this season, and if the Lakers can manage his minutes and role, he could be a high-impact addition. Whether it’s anchoring bench units or closing games based on matchups, Williams gives the Lakers a defensive gear they currently lack.
Daniel Gafford - Dallas Mavericks
Daniel Gafford brings a different kind of appeal - one rooted in familiarity and fit. With averages of 7.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in just under 21 minutes per game, Gafford has continued to be a highly efficient interior presence. But what makes him especially intriguing for the Lakers is his existing chemistry with Dončić.
During their time together in Dallas, Gafford proved to be an ideal pick-and-roll partner. He sets solid screens, rolls hard to the rim, and finishes with authority - all while holding his own defensively.
That kind of synergy matters. Plug-and-play bigs who already understand Dončić’s rhythm are rare, and the adjustment period would be minimal.
From Dallas’ standpoint, Gafford could be expendable. With Dereck Lively II emerging as the center of the future and the franchise looking to retool around Cooper Flagg, flipping Gafford for assets makes sense. For the Lakers, it’s a chance to add a big who checks all the boxes: rim protection, vertical spacing, and built-in chemistry with their star.
Clint Capela - Houston Rockets
Clint Capela is a name Lakers fans know well - a veteran big who’s carved out a career doing the little things that win games. After rejoining the Rockets in free agency, Capela has seen his role shrink behind Steven Adams. His numbers - 3.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 0.6 blocks in just over 11 minutes per game - reflect that reduced usage.
But Capela’s skill set hasn’t changed. He still screens hard, rolls with purpose, and protects the paint.
And for a Lakers team that doesn’t need him to be a 30-minute-a-night guy, that’s more than enough. Capela could slot into a situational role, giving the coaching staff a matchup-based option who brings veteran savvy and playoff experience.
Houston may be looking to rebalance its roster, particularly in the backcourt, which opens the door for a potential deal - perhaps as part of a multi-team trade. For Los Angeles, Capela would be a low-maintenance, high-IQ addition who fits the system without demanding touches or minutes.
The Big Picture in L.A.
When you’re building around a player like Dončić - someone who commands the ball, controls tempo, and creates for everyone - depth isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. The Lakers don’t need one superstar center. They need a rotation of reliable bigs who can defend the rim, set strong screens, and execute in the pick-and-roll.
With a 25-16 record through 41 games, the Lakers are firmly in the mix. But postseason success will hinge on their ability to stay healthy, manage minutes, and maintain consistency on both ends of the floor. Reinforcing the five spot is about more than plugging a hole - it’s about giving Dončić the structure he needs to thrive over the long haul.
Whether it’s the shot-blocking instincts of Robert Williams III, the chemistry and verticality of Daniel Gafford, or the veteran steadiness of Clint Capela, the Lakers have options. And with the trade deadline approaching, the time to act is now.