The Los Angeles Lakers are facing a pivotal moment regarding their superstar duo of LeBron James and Luka Doncic. While acquiring Doncic has launched a new era for the franchise, uncertainty surrounding James’ future is prompting the team to focus intensely on building around the Slovenian star and targeting potential Lakers Luka Doncic trade targets for 2027.

Trade discussions involving LeBron James have reached a critical stage, with four teams reportedly expressing interest in acquiring the veteran forward. The possibility of James departing the Lakers has grown as tensions between the player and the organization escalate.

According to Dan Woike of The Athletic, the strain appears to stem from the Lakers’ strategic approach to managing their salary cap:

“Much of the tension appears to stem from the Lakers’ desire to keep their salary-cap sheet as clear as possible starting next summer, allowing them to find Luka Doncic’s future partner either in free agency or via trade, when they’ll have access to use first-round picks in 2026, 2031 and 2033 for a single trade.”

—Dan Woike, NBA Insider

The Lakers’ intent to trade Dorian Finney-Smith to free up cap space further confirms the franchise’s commitment to aligning their financial flexibility with Doncic’s timeline. The Purple and Gold are preparing to surround Doncic with the high-caliber talent required for championship contention, focusing especially on securing a strong frontcourt presence to complement his all-around skill set.

Giannis Antetokounmpo: A Potential Superstar Addition for 2027

Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks’ dominant forward, has emerged as a tantalizing prospect for the Lakers’ future roster construction, although a trade at present is unlikely. Despite early offseason speculation about possible destinations for Giannis, the Bucks’ president recently dismissed trade rumors, signaling that a deal is not imminent.

However, Giannis carries a $58.46 million player option for the 2027-28 season, opening a window for the Lakers to pursue him as a free agent when their salary cap situation improves. Pairing Doncic with Antetokounmpo would create an exceptional on-court duo, combining Doncic’s playmaking with Giannis’ multifaceted dominance.

Last season, Antetokounmpo averaged 30.4 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game, illustrating his capability to influence every aspect of the game. A partnership with Doncic, where some creative responsibilities are shared, could prove to be a championship-winning formula, though integrating two superstars always presents adjustment challenges.

The complexity of such a move lies in the many factors beyond the Lakers’ control, including Milwaukee’s roster construction and Giannis’ own preferences. Still, this remains one of the franchise’s most ambitious Lakers Luka Doncic trade targets for 2027.

Karl-Anthony Towns: A Versatile Frontcourt Complement

New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns stands out as another key target for the Lakers when building around Luka Doncic in the summer of 2027. Towns was a major contributor to New York’s first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in a quarter-century, averaging 24.4 points and 12.8 rebounds per game last season.

Despite his offensive brilliance, Towns shouldered criticism for his defensive effort during New York’s playoff exit, a factor that could influence the Knicks’ plans moving forward. With substantial roster changes anticipated in New York, the possibility of Towns being made available in trade discussions cannot be overlooked.

Financially, a trade involving James for Towns could work for the Lakers. Towns also possesses a $55.1 million player option for the 2027-28 season, giving the Lakers another potential pathway to acquire him via free agency if he opts out of that contract.

His ability to score and rebound at an elite level would provide significant support for Doncic by anchoring the paint, while potentially addressing the Lakers’ needs in interior defense and offensive spacing.

Nikola Jokic: A Dream Duo with High Challenges

Nikola Jokic’s inclusion as a possible Lakers addition generates skepticism but also excitement among basketball analysts. The Denver Nuggets’ center recently declined a contract extension, sparking uncertainty about his long-term commitment to the franchise and prompting speculation about his status for 2027 and beyond.

Jokic has a $62.8 million player option for the 2027-28 season. If he decides to test free agency, the Lakers could have the necessary cap room to pursue one of the league’s most productive stars. Last season, Jokic finished just behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the MVP voting, averaging an outstanding 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per contest.

The synergy between Jokic and Doncic would be extraordinary, given their similar playmaking styles from the frontcourt and wing positions, respectively. This pairing offers the Lakers a high ceiling on offense and play creation but comes with enormous obstacles, such as Jokic’s preferences and Denver’s stance, making it a long shot for a successful transaction.

Future Outlook for the Lakers’ Roster Strategy

The Lakers face two main pathways depending on LeBron James’ status. Should he be traded, the franchise can leverage his value to acquire a superstar before 2027. If James remains or is bought out, the Lakers will have fewer trade assets and will likely concentrate on the 2027 free agency to secure key additions around Doncic.

Recently, the Lakers strengthened their frontcourt by signing center Deandre Ayton, who brings a reliable presence in the rotation and complements Doncic’s style. This acquisition underscores the team’s commitment to enhancing their interior defense and rebounding while developing wing players to balance the roster.

Many players on the current Lakers roster hold expiring contracts, positioning the franchise to clear significant cap space next season even without major trades this year. This will allow them to target players like Andrew Wiggins, who has a $30.17 million player option for 2026-27, potentially enabling him to join the Lakers if he opts out.

The timing of acquiring a frontcourt star in 2027 aligns well with Ayton’s contract expiration. If Ayton proves instrumental to the team, re-signing him could be a priority, while additional cap room might be dedicated to securing a star in a complementary position.

Ultimately, the success of the Lakers’ ambitious project hinges on Luka Doncic’s willingness to commit long term. His decision to sign an extension will solidify the franchise’s direction; without it, the Lakers may need to reassess their entire strategy.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Is Luka Doncic a billionaire?

A. In 2025, Luka Doncic’s estimated net worth is around $75 million, based on information from Celebrity Net Worth.

Q. Are Luka Doncic and Bad Bunny friends?

A. DALLAS — These two have been friends for many years. Recently, this year’s Spotify Artist of the Year released a new song mentioning Mavs star Luka Dončić.