The Los Angeles Lakers have been connected to Brooklyn Nets center Nicolas Claxton throughout the offseason due to his fit alongside star Luka Doncic. Standing 6-foot-11, Claxton’s versatility as a defender and ability to finish lobs make him a coveted addition for the Lakers, aligning closely with the type of center described by Lakers President of Basketball Operations and GM Rob Pelinka after last season.
However, despite early interest, reports indicate a deal for Claxton may be unlikely. Insider Dan Woike shared that there is no substantial trade discussion involving Claxton and the Lakers at this time. Previously, Brooklyn’s price for Claxton was a first-round pick, but Los Angeles currently only possesses a single tradeable draft selection in 2031, leading to hesitation in moving valuable assets so early in the offseason.
Exploring Other Center Options Amid Asset Constraints
With the Lakers balancing multiple roster needs, prioritizing the addition of a center without relinquishing their sole draft pick complicates negotiations. The team is reportedly evaluating cheaper alternatives to Claxton to conserve flexibility for future transactions.
Other available big men attracting Laker interest include Deandre Ayton, Mitchell Robinson, Daniel Gafford, Nick Richards, and Robert Williams III. Acquiring any of these players at a lower cost than Claxton would help the Lakers maintain maneuverability across their roster, especially as they attempt to surround Luka Doncic with complementary talent.
GM Rob Pelinka Signals Relentless Pursuit of a Center
Following the Lakers’ recent acquisition of wing player Adou Thiero in the 2025 NBA draft—as a result of moving up from the 55th to the 36th pick—attention has shifted to securing a dependable center through trade or free agency. General Manager Rob Pelinka emphasized his commitment to this goal after the draft move.
“We won’t rest until we get it right,” Pelinka said.
This statement underscores the Lakers’ awareness of their roster gaps. Their early elimination in the first round of the 2025 NBA playoffs, particularly in a loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, exposed weaknesses in both frontcourt presence and overall depth that they now seek to address before the upcoming season.
Implications for the Lakers’ Roster and Future Strategy
The pursuit of a center who complements Luka Doncic remains a top priority, but the complexities of trade demands and limited draft assets present a significant obstacle. Should the Lakers be unable to acquire Nicolas Claxton or a similarly impactful big man, they may pivot to less costly options to avoid compromising their long-term rebuilding timeline.
The outcome of these negotiations will play a crucial role in shaping the Lakers’ competitiveness and flexibility in the near future. Securing a suitable center is essential not only for immediate playoff aspirations but also for constructing a roster capable of sustained success around Doncic’s talent.