While fan-generated trade proposals continue to swirl online with dreams of acquiring stars like everyone from Myles Turner or Naz Reid to Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant, the Los Angeles Lakers are approaching this offseason with a more grounded strategy. According to ClutchPoints’ Anthony Irwin, league sources anticipate a tough market for free agents—just not tough enough for the Lakers to expect top-tier centers to fall into their lap.
NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Eye Realistic Free Agent Targets as Market Tightens
Instead, the Lakers are zeroing in on more attainable targets, such as Clint Capela, who could be had for the $5.7 million taxpayer mid-level exception. Capela’s name has surfaced near the top of the Lakers’ wish list, seen as a high-value acquisition within financial reach. Other veteran bigs like Kevon Looney and Al Horford are also viewed as realistic options, though Looney may prefer to remain with the Warriors and Horford’s age could pose durability questions.
According to Irwin, The Lakers’ front office remains divided on spending further resources on the frontcourt. After all, the roster already features significant investments in players like LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, and others who operate in similar spaces.
Still, there is internal momentum to use the mid-level exception on a center—even after a potential trade for a starting big man, Irwin writes. If that happens, look for a follow-up move: flipping a mid-tier expiring salary in exchange for a more productive perimeter player to better balance the roster.
This layered, pragmatic approach reflects a front office aiming to build around its core without overcommitting. While splashy moves make headlines, their path this summer could be defined more by discipline and strategic fit than by headline-grabbing deals.
In a tight market, measured decisions may be what ultimately move the needle.