While the core of the Los Angeles Lakers is fairly set for the foreseeable future, the team still has plenty of questions to answer this offseason. Most notably at the center position, and a move for a top big man could have consequences throughout the entire roster.
There are plenty of rumors out that the Lakers could trade for a center instead of settling for a fairly weak free agent class. If they were to go down this route, they would undoubtedly have to include guard Austin Reaves in any trade package.
This would ultimately put them in the market to add another guard for depth.
One such player is Minnesota Timberwolves guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker. Bovada currently gives the Lakers the highest odds to land him if he chooses to leave Minnesota.
The Lakers are the favorites to land Nickeil Alexander-Walker if he doesn’t stay in Minnesota, per @BovadaOfficial
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 31, 2025
Los Angeles Lakers +235
Brooklyn Nets +290
Golden State Warriors +425
Miami Heat +525
Toronto Raptors +900 pic.twitter.com/F3hcuklLXt
Los Angeles Lakers Given Best Odds To Land Nickeil Alexander-Walker
This move would really only make sense if they were to move Austin Reaves or Dalton Knecht. Gabe Vincent is another player who could be included in a trade package, as he only has one year left on his current contract.
The current odds for Alexander-Walker if he leaves the Wolves are:
- Los Angeles Lakers +235
- Brooklyn Nets +290
- Golden State Warriors +425
- Miami Heat +525
- Toronto Raptors +900
Alexander-Walker was an important depth piece for the Wolves and would have a similar role for JJ Redick in LA. He has become one of the premier perimeter defenders in the NBA. Last season, he averaged 9.4 points per game, and he had a 43.8% shooting percentage.
NAW would be a nice upgrade over Vincent off the bench, and he is still just 26 years old.
Thoughts, Lakers Nation?