As the Los Angeles Lakers look to revamp their roster to contend for another NBA championship, a glaring issue has been their desperate need for a center. To their credit, they tried to correct the issue by adding Charlotte Hornets big man Mark Williams at the trade deadline, but it was quickly rescinded due to a failed physical.
Now the Lakers are stuck with Jaxson Hayes, but he was removed from Sunday’s games against the Minnesota Timberwolves after four minutes of action. No matter how the season ends, Los Angeles’s number one priority is finding a playable center.
Lakers Linked With Brook Lopez
One name has emerged as a potential solution to their big man woes: former NBA champion Brook Lopez. With JJ Redick at the helm, the Lakers are exploring all options to address their roster’s shortcomings, and Lopez’s defensive prowess makes him a prime target.
Brook Lopez is the favorite to be the Lakers’ starting center next season, per @BovadaOfficial
Brook Lopez +250
Nic Claxton +400
Clint Capela +500
Any 2025 Draft Pick +750
Dereck Lively II +800
Walker Kessler +1200
Myles Turner +1400
Nikola Vucevic +1600
John Collins +1800… pic.twitter.com/2tmDWOdKFI— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) April 28, 2025
Lopez, 36, is a free agent after this season and is the favorite (+250) to land with the Lakers according to Bovada Sportsbook. Rounding out the top five are Nic Claxton of the Brooklyn Nets (+400), Clint Capela of the Atlanta Hawks (+500), any pick from the 2025 NBA Draft (+750), and Derrick Lively of the Dallas Mavericks (+800).
Lopez’s Defensive Stats This Season
Currently playing for the Milwaukee Bucks, Lopez has consistently been one of the league’s best defensive centers playing in 80 games and averaging 31.8 minutes a night. This season, he is averaging 1.9 blocks per game, showcasing his rim-protecting abilities. His defensive rating of 113.6 further underscores his impact on the defensive end. His defensive contributions extend beyond blocks, as he alters shots, grabs defensive rebounds, and provides a formidable presence in the paint.
The Lakers’ potential interest in Lopez stems from their need for a strong defensive anchor. While they possess plenty of offensive firepower, their lack of a rim-protecting center has often been a liability. Lopez’s ability to be an anchor in the paint and deter opposing scorers would significantly bolster their defense, making them a more complete team.
Redick’s arrival as the Lakers’ coach signaled a new era for the franchise. Known for his analytical approach and high basketball IQ, Redick has prioritized both offensive and defensive strategies. Acquiring a player like Lopez would align perfectly with his vision of building a well-rounded team capable of competing at the highest level.
However, the Lakers will most likely face some steep competition in the pursuit of Lopez. Other teams around the league will covet the big man, and the Bucks may not be so ready to just let him walk. The Lakers’ ability to offer a compelling package, both in terms of assets and a winning environment, will be crucial in their attempt to land Lopez.
If the Lakers successfully acquire Lopez, it would not only address their defensive concerns but also provide a veteran presence and championship experience to their roster. His fit alongside LeBron James and Luka Dončić most certainly puts the Lakers in a championship-or-bust mode, and could elevate them to a true contender in the Western Conference.