After a disappointing first-round playoff exit, the Los Angeles Lakers are aggressively exploring ways to shore up their roster—starting with their biggest weakness: the center position.
The failed midseason trade for Mark Williams underscored the Lakers’ need for a reliable rim protector. Jaxson Hayes didn’t provide the playoff impact Los Angeles hoped for, and now the front office is prioritizing a veteran center who can anchor the paint and stretch the floor. Enter Brook Lopez.
Los Angeles Lakers Eye Brook Lopez as Rim-Protector Search Intensifies
Lopez, 37, is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer, and they have reportedly already reached out. “There’ll be plenty of interest in him,” an NBA executive told PBWA’s Gery Woelfel. “I’m sure the Lakers have already talked to him.”
Lopez spent the 2017–18 season in Los Angeles before joining the Milwaukee Bucks, where he became a key part of their 2021 championship team. This past season, Lopez averaged 13.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.9 blocks while shooting 50.9% from the field and 37.3% from three across 80 games. His ability to space the floor and protect the rim is exactly what the Lakers need next to LeBron James and potentially Luka Doncic, who L.A. reportedly hopes to pair with long-term.
Despite a lackluster playoff showing—averaging just 5.0 points in 14.8 minutes per game—Lopez remains a sought-after piece for contenders like the Warriors and Lakers. His age may prevent a long-term deal, but in the short term, he offers defensive versatility, veteran leadership, and frontcourt stability.
With limited cap space, the team would likely need a sign-and-trade to land Lopez or any major free agent. Still, they possess the trade assets to make something happen. Lopez would be a stopgap solution, but one who could help L.A. compete for a title in the twilight of LeBron’s legendary career.