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Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic, center, celebrates after scoring as New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns, left, walks away and guard Austin Reaves stands by during the second half of an NBA basketball game Thursday, March 6, 2025, in Los Angeles. (Imagr via AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
The Los Angeles Lakers are actively working the phones to acquire a new starting center, with trade discussions gaining momentum around Brooklyn Nets' Nic Claxton, Robert Williams III, and Walker Kessler, per league sources.
However, rival teams are exploiting L.A.’s desperation, leading to stalled negotiations and inflated asking prices.
Los Angeles Lakers’ Top Trade Targets
Los Angeles Lakers has zeroed in on three defensive-minded big men to shore up their frontcourt:
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic, left, greets teammate Austin Reaves before an NBA basketball game with the Phoenix Suns, Sunday, March 16, 2025, in Los Angeles. (Image via AP Photo/Wally Skalij)
| Target | Current Team | Potential Trade Cost | Why Lakers Want Him |
| Nic Claxton | Brooklyn Nets | 2029 1st-round pick + Austin Reaves or Rui Hachimura | Elite switchable defender who fits modern NBA |
| Robert Williams III | Portland Trail Blazers | Multiple 2nd-round picks + Jalen Hood-Schifino | Championship experience, elite rim protection |
| Walker Kessler | Utah Jazz | Protected 1st-round pick + Max Christie | Young, cost-controlled defensive anchor |
A Western Conference executive revealed: "The Lakers are stuck in the same cycle—every GM knows they're backed into a corner. If they want Claxton or Kessler, they'll need to pay a premium."
Why Negotiations Are Stalling
The Los Angeles Lakers find themselves in familiar territory—their urgency is giving opposing teams leverage: - Brooklyn wants Austin Reaves included in any Claxton deal - Utah is playing hardball on Kessler, demanding unprotected pick - Portland may settle for less due to Williams' injury concerns
Fallback Options if Trades Fall Through
If a deal can't be reached, the Lakers may pivot to: 1. Signing a veteran via mid-level exception (Brook Lopez, Clint Capela) 2. Pursuing cheaper trade alternatives (Andre Drummond, Daniel Gafford) 3. Gambling on buyout market later in season
Latest Developments
- Nets-Lakers talks ongoing but stalled over Reaves' inclusion - Jazz willing to move Kessler but want draft compensation - LeBron pushing front office to finalize roster before campAlso read: NBA Trade Rumors: New York Knicks might get $104.72 million Memphis Grizzlies big man to form power duo with KAT; Mikal Bridges key trade asset?Expect the Los Angeles Lakers to make a move within the next 2-3 weeks before training camp opens.
While they're reluctant to part with Reaves or their last tradeable 1st-round pick, the pressure to contend may force their hand.The Lakers face a critical decision: overpay for an impact center now or risk entering the season with glaring weaknesses. With rival teams driving hard bargains, L.A. must weigh short-term needs against long-term flexibility. As training camp looms, expect heightened urgency—whether through a blockbuster trade or a fallback option—to solidify their roster.
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