Lakers Stay Quiet at the Deadline, But the Real Moves Are Coming This Summer
When trade season heats up, the Los Angeles Lakers are usually right in the thick of it-whether it’s swinging for a superstar or reshuffling the supporting cast. But this year?
Rob Pelinka and company mostly stayed on the sidelines. Outside of a minor move-sending out Gabe Vincent and bringing in Luke Kennard to add some much-needed shooting-L.A. chose continuity over chaos.
It’s a calculated decision, and one that hints at something bigger on the horizon.
Why the Lakers Chose Patience
The decision to stand pat might’ve raised a few eyebrows, especially considering the Lakers' up-and-down season and the always-looming pressure to maximize whatever time is left with LeBron James. But this move-or lack thereof-wasn’t about this season alone.
It was about the bigger picture. The Lakers are playing the long game, and that game revolves around Luka Dončić.
Ever since pulling off the blockbuster deal to land Dončić last February, the Lakers have made it clear: he’s the franchise cornerstone now. And with that comes a new timeline, a new strategy, and a new vision for how this team will be built.
A Summer of Opportunity
The real fireworks for the Lakers are expected to come this summer. With LeBron likely to either move on or retire, L.A. will suddenly find itself with a massive amount of salary space. Dončić will be the only max contract on the books heading into next season, and even with an anticipated extension for Austin Reaves, the Lakers will have plenty of financial flexibility to reshape the roster.
But it’s not just about cap space. The Lakers will also unlock three additional first-round picks that become trade-eligible this offseason.
That’s a big deal. Whether they’re chasing another superstar or looking to bolster the roster with high-level role players, those picks give them serious leverage.
One name that’s been floating around? Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Bucks star found himself at the center of trade speculation at the deadline, and with his future in Milwaukee uncertain, the Lakers could be in position to make a run-if they decide to go that route.
But even if they don’t chase another megastar, those picks are valuable currency. If L.A. wants to add defensive versatility with someone like Herb Jones, stretch the floor with P.J. Washington, or get more physical inside with a Daniel Gafford or Walker Kessler, they now have the assets to make it happen.
Building Around Dončić
Pelinka has made it clear: the goal is to build a contender around Dončić that can compete for years-not just one playoff run. That means prioritizing players who fit his timeline and skill set. It’s a strategy that echoes what Dallas tried to do during Dončić’s early years, but now L.A. has a chance to refine that model with a bigger market, more resources, and a clean slate.
This summer will be the Lakers’ first real opportunity to fully construct a roster tailored to their new superstar. And with the combination of cap space, draft capital, and a clear direction, they’re positioned to make some serious noise.
For now, the Lakers are rolling with the group they’ve got. But don’t mistake their deadline silence for inaction.
The chessboard is set. The real moves are coming.