The Los Angeles Lakers’ recent playoff exit highlighted a significant weakness: a lack of a dominant center. This deficiency was glaringly exposed in their series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, culminating in a Game 5 loss where Rudy Gobert dominated with 27 points and 24 rebounds. As one team source described to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, “[Rudy] Gobert looked like Shaq.”
This issue stems, in part, from the Lakers’ trade for Luka Dončić, which necessitated the departure of Anthony Davis and created a void in the interior. To address this, LA initially orchestrated a trade with the Charlotte Hornets to acquire center Mark Williams. McMenamin revealed that Williams was Dončić’s preferred lob partner, based on his effectiveness with Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford in Dallas.
Los Angeles Lakers Looking For Frontcourt Size
However, LA ultimately backed out of the Williams trade, citing concerns about his physical condition. This decision is particularly noteworthy, as Williams played the night of the trade and did not miss subsequent time due to injury. Their reluctance to finalize the deal left their need at center unaddressed.
The consequences of this decision were evident throughout the playoffs, where the Lakers struggled to contain opposing big men. They often resorted to small-ball lineups against Minnesota’s size, but neither approach proved effective. The Lakers were consistently outmatched on the boards and unable to protect the paint.
Looking ahead, the team acknowledges the urgency of this situation. President of basketball operations Rob Pelinka has stated, “One of our primary goals is going to be to add size in our frontcourt at the center position.” The failed trade for Williams underscores the Lakers’ awareness of this need and the potential cost of not addressing it. As the Lakers face an offseason with crucial decisions regarding LeBron James, Luka Dončić’s contract extension, and roster strengthening, finding a solution at center is a top priority.