The Los Angeles Lakers’ search for a new center just got tougher. With the Toronto Raptors locking in their star big man on a massive contract, the Lakers’ hopes of landing a top-tier center this offseason appear dim.
After a disappointing first-round playoff exit, it’s clear the Lakers need to address the hole left by Anthony Davis’ departure and find a reliable, experienced center if they want to compete for a title. As the offseason rolls on, fans are left wondering who, if anyone, can fill that void for one of the NBA’s most storied franchises.
Throughout the offseason, Lakers fans have debated which center the team might target. While there is still time for the Lakers to make a move, another top candidate is now off the table after signing a big deal with the Raptors. This leaves the Lakers with fewer options, and time is running out to secure the kind of big man they need to contend.
Raptors Secure Jakob Poeltl With Major Extension, Leaving Lakers in Limbo
The Lakers have been exploring the market for an experienced, talented center, with names like Lauri Markkanen of the Utah Jazz and Jakob Poeltl of the Raptors coming up in recent reports. The team’s front office has scouted several players, but Poeltl appeared to be a prime target if he became available.
NBA reporter Michael Scotto initially reported that the Lakers would be a top suitor if Poeltl and the Raptors failed to reach a contract agreement.
“Poeltl is owed $19.5 million for the 2025-26 season and has a player option for the same figure for the 2026-27 season. Should Poeltl not get an extension done with Toronto, a team such as the Los Angeles Lakers – who are seeking an upgrade at center – could have trade interest,” Scotto said.
“Poeltl has previously signaled he’d like to get an extension done and remain a Raptor, if possible, and Ujiri called him a ‘backbone’ during his exit media availability.”
A few weeks after Scotto’s report, senior NBA insider Shams Charania announced that Poeltl and the Raptors had reached an agreement, effectively ending the Lakers’ chances of signing him through regular channels.
“Toronto Raptors center Jakob Poeltl has agreed on a four-year, $104 million contract extension with the franchise through 2029-30,” Charania reported. “Poeltl will pick up his 2026-27 player option at $19.5M and add three additional years to his deal.”
Toronto Raptors center Jakob Poeltl has agreed on a four-year, $104 million contract extension with the franchise through 2029-30, sources tell ESPN. Poeltl will pick up his 2026-27 player option at $19.5M and add three additional years to his deal. pic.twitter.com/wBHnoF5vUV
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2025
While the Lakers could still try to acquire Poeltl through a sign-and-trade, it would require giving up more assets to convince the Raptors to part with a player they just committed to for multiple years. That makes a deal unlikely, and the Lakers will have to look elsewhere for a solution.
Another option that the Lakers have been linked to is Deandre Ayton. The big man agreed to a buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers and is now nearing a decision on his future. The Indiana Pacers are also a team floated for Ayton, especially after they have lost Myles Turner to the Milwaukee Bucks.
Ayton will offer much-needed rim protection for the Lakers as a traditional center. They have been looking to solve this glaring need for years now, and Ayton could help as a starter.
If they lose out on Ayton, the Lakers’ options are shrinking. If they cannot find a suitable center, they may have to return with the same roster next season, which would make it tough for them to be considered serious title contenders. The pressure is on for the front office to make a move, and every missed opportunity narrows their path to success.
