The Los Angeles Lakers solved one massive issue when they landed Luka Dončić. But in doing so, they created another, a gaping hole at center. With Anthony Davis now in Dallas and JJ Redick’s squad bounced in the first round, the front office has no choice but to get aggressive.
Could Daniel Gafford be the next piece of the puzzle?
Why Might the Lakers Target Daniel Gafford?
The Lakers came close to addressing their center vacancy earlier this offseason, nearly acquiring Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets. That deal fell apart because of health concerns, and the need remains as urgent as ever. Jaxson Hayes has struggled to deliver as a reliable post presence, and the free agent market doesn’t offer many strong options.
That’s where Daniel Gafford enters the conversation.
PFN’s Brandon Austin recently predicted Los Angeles could go after Gafford, noting the established chemistry between Dončić and the 6’10” center. Gafford averaged 11.2 points per game after joining Dallas in 2023 and followed it up with 12.3 points and 1.8 blocks per game this season.
His ability to finish around the rim and protect it on defense makes him a strong fit alongside LeBron James and Dončić.
“P.J. Washington also on the roster, the frontcourt is getting a bit crowded. This could be the perfect opportunity for the Lakers to get their new superstar a big man he trusts and has proven production with. Considering how they landed Dončić, L.A. might be able to get him for a bargain.”
Gafford is under contract through 2027 after signing a three-year, $40,182,480 deal with the Washington Wizards. The full amount is guaranteed, and he’s set to earn $13,394,160 in 2024-25, a manageable figure given the Lakers’ current cap structure. That financial flexibility could make him even more appealing as a trade target.
And the trade connection is already there. Lakers GM Rob Pelinka and Mavericks GM Nico Harrison negotiated the Dončić-Davis blockbuster. If there’s one front office willing to strike again, it’s Dallas.
Could the Mavericks’ Draft Plans Make Gafford Available?
Gafford’s future in Dallas may have less to do with his production and more to do with the team’s financial picture.
With the Mavericks winning the NBA Draft Lottery and locking in the rights to select Cooper Flagg at No. 1, Dallas suddenly finds itself in a roster crunch and a cap space problem. Flagg is projected to sign a four-year, $62.7 million deal.
With Davis, Dereck Lively II, and P.J. Washington already in the frontcourt, Gafford becomes a luxury they might not be able to afford.
If Harrison doesn’t plan to extend Gafford, moving him on draft night could be the smartest move. The Mavericks are reportedly looking for flexibility and additional draft picks — something the Lakers might be able to offer.
And with Dončić already in Los Angeles, the Lakers could give their new superstar the one thing he’s missing: a familiar and reliable big man.
