The Los Angeles Lakers are staring down a defining offseason-and they’re not wasting any time laying the groundwork. With Luka Dončić now firmly entrenched as the face of the franchise, the front office is already eyeing six potential additions who could help shape the next phase of this team’s evolution.
According to reports, the Lakers have internally discussed targeting Tobias Harris, Dean Wade, Quentin Grimes, Andrew Wiggins, Tari Eason, and Peyton Watson as they look to retool the roster around their superstar. What’s clear from the names being floated is the type of player they’re after: size, shooting, and two-way versatility. In other words, guys who can complement Luka’s ball-dominant style without sacrificing defensive integrity.
And here’s the kicker-the Lakers have the tools to make real moves. With roughly $51 million in projected cap space and three first-round picks to dangle in trade talks, they’re positioned to either go big or build out quality depth. Let’s break down the potential targets and what they could bring to Los Angeles.
Tobias Harris: Veteran Stability
Tobias Harris might not be the flashiest name on this list, but he’s one of the most reliable. The Pistons forward is putting up 13.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game on 45.5% shooting from the field and a respectable 35.4% from deep. He’s also set to hit unrestricted free agency, meaning the Lakers could pursue him without giving up assets.
Harris isn’t a star, but he’s a proven scorer who can slot in at either forward spot, stretch the floor, and bring a steady hand to the rotation. For a team that’s seen plenty of roster turnover in recent years, that kind of stability could go a long way.
Dean Wade: Low-Cost, High-Fit Role Player
Dean Wade is the kind of under-the-radar option that championship contenders often covet. He’s not going to fill up the stat sheet-he’s averaging 5.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists on 41.7% shooting-but his value lies in his defensive versatility and ability to space the floor.
Also an unrestricted free agent, Wade could be a cost-effective addition to the Lakers’ bench. He’s the type of player who might not get much attention in July, but come playoff time, his ability to guard multiple positions and knock down open looks could prove invaluable.
Quentin Grimes: Upside and Two-Way Potential
Quentin Grimes is a name to watch closely. The Sixers guard is averaging 12.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.6 assists while shooting 43.9% from the field and 34.1% from three. Still just 25, Grimes offers a blend of youth, athleticism, and two-way potential that fits well alongside Dončić.
Grimes can handle secondary playmaking duties, defend on the perimeter, and knock down shots-exactly the kind of complementary guard the Lakers could use. He’ll be an unrestricted free agent this summer, and his market could heat up quickly.
Andrew Wiggins: The Swing-for-the-Fences Option
If Andrew Wiggins declines his $30.1 million player option with the Heat, he becomes the most intriguing name on this list. Wiggins is averaging 15.9 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.8 assists while shooting an efficient 47.1% from the field and 39.5% from three. He’s also a proven playoff performer with championship pedigree.
Wiggins brings size, athleticism, and strong perimeter defense-all traits that would help lighten the load on Luka, especially on the defensive end. If he hits the open market, expect the Lakers to be one of several teams making a strong pitch.
Tari Eason: Trade Target with Defensive Bite
Tari Eason isn’t a free agent, but he’s very much on the Lakers’ radar. Under contract with the Rockets for one more season at $5.6 million, Eason would require a trade-and Houston values him highly. That said, his production (12.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.5 assists) and efficiency (45.1% FG, 46.0% from three) make him a tempting target.
Eason is a high-energy forward who defends, rebounds, and hits threes. He’d bring a different edge to the Lakers’ frontcourt, but acquiring him would likely cost real assets. The question is whether L.A. is willing to dip into its pick stash to get a deal done.
Peyton Watson: Breakout Wing with Big Upside
Peyton Watson is having a breakout season in Denver, averaging 14.9 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.0 assists while shooting 49.6% from the field and 41.7% from deep. As a restricted free agent, the Nuggets can match any offer, but with luxury tax concerns looming, the door may be cracked open.
Watson has the size, shooting, and athleticism to be a high-level wing in today’s NBA. For the Lakers, he represents a long-term investment with immediate upside. If Denver hesitates, L.A. could pounce.
The Lakers currently sit fifth in the Western Conference with a 33-21 record-identical to where they were at this point last season. But this year feels different. Luka Dončić has fully taken the reins, and the team’s ceiling now hinges on what kind of support they can put around him.
Whether they opt for depth pieces or swing for a headline-grabbing move, the Lakers have the flexibility, cap space, and draft capital to be major players this summer. One thing’s for sure: this offseason will go a long way in determining whether Los Angeles can build a true contender around their new cornerstone.