NBA trade rumors: Los Angeles Lakers could sign $54 million Dallas Mavericks superstar to for deadly duo with Luka Doncic

Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka is reportedly keeping a close eye on Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford as the franchise looks to strengthen its interior presence around Luka Doncic.

With the NBA season moving quickly toward the February 5 trade deadline, the Lakers are exploring ways to maintain momentum behind their new cornerstone star.Gafford, who has emerged as a bright spot on a struggling Mavericks team that entered Friday night with a 2-6 record, has drawn interest from several teams. According to ClutchPoints’ Bret Siegel, “Several teams continue to monitor Daniel Gafford, including the Los Angeles Lakers, sources told.” Siegel also noted that this speculation is influenced heavily by Dallas’ slow start to the season. (H/t: Sporting News)

Why the Los Angeles Lakers Want Gafford as Luka Doncic’s Lob Partner

Luka Doncic has been performing at an MVP-level clip, averaging 40 points, 11 rebounds, and nine assists.

Since joining the Lakers to become the franchise face post-LeBron James, he has delivered every bit of the dominance the front office envisioned.However, Los Angeles still lacks an ideal vertical lob partner. Deandre Ayton remains productive but has struggled with finishing consistently around the rim. That concern has opened the door for the front office to explore a more explosive option, such as Gafford.

Daniel Gafford 2025 Season Snapshot

Gafford’s skill set - rim-running, shot-blocking, mobility, and verticality - makes him an attractive option for a Lakers team built around Luka’s passing and pace.

Dallas’ Complicated Position and GM’s Dilemma

The Mavericks’ slow start raises questions about how aggressively the team will reshape the roster. Dallas' GM may hesitate to move veteran players when the franchise still doesn’t know what the finished product will look like this season.Kyrie Irving’s ACL tear has kept him out for most of the year, and his return timeline remains uncertain. If the Mavericks continue to slide, the organization may decide there’s little reason to rush him back.

What the Mavericks Currently Have

Even in the face of adversity, Dallas does have talent around Flagg and Davis to make a push for at least a Play-In seed. But their direction could shift quickly depending on their results over the next several weeks.

Jason Kidd’s Job and the Coaching Factor

Another major variable is head coach Jason Kidd. Despite signing an extension, his job security is not guaranteed. NBA history is filled with examples of coaches being fired with years left on their contracts.With the Mavericks’ performance dipping and expectations rising around Flagg’s development, Dallas GM will eventually need to determine whether the problem lies with the roster or on the bench.

The Road to February 5

Dallas’ direction leading up to the trade deadline will be one of the league’s most watched situations. A struggling start could push Harrison toward a soft reset around Flagg, while a turnaround might convince him to stay the course.Also read: NBA trade rumors: Los Angeles Lakers could sign $54 million Dallas Mavericks superstar in a bold move to strengthen roster around Luka DoncicFor the Lakers, the vision is clearer. With Luka Doncic carrying the franchise forward and playing at a historic level, securing a dependable lob threat is a priority. Whether that leads them back to the Mavericks’ front office will become clearer as the season unfolds.