After falling short of their objectives in the 2024-25 NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers aim to overhaul their roster significantly. General Manager Rob Pelinka has identified a center and a defensive wing as top priorities. While no deals have been finalized, the Lakers have already set their sights on key targets, including Deandre Ayton. However, a recent statement from a former NBA champion casts doubt on his potential arrival to the team.
“The word around the league is not good about Deandre Ayton… He’s been labeled as a diva, as a cancer in the locker room… he has to change a lot about himself or he will find his career being shortened,” Kendrick Perkins said, via ESPN. Following these reports, fans have become increasingly doubtful of his arrival, as they do not believe that his arrival will make a difference to the roster.
Deandre Ayton’s potential arrival at the Los Angeles Lakers seems increasingly feasible, especially after the team’s struggles to seal other deals. Meanwhile, Bobby Marks reports that Ayton, now a free agent, has become more appealing after accepting a reduced salary of $14.1 million. The Lakers view him as a strong candidate for their starting center position.
In the 2024-25 NBA season, the 26-year-old center averaged 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds for the Portland Trail Blazers. Though he did not have his most stellar season individually, his steady performance could provide the Lakers with the immediate impact they desperately need.
However, Los Angeles might face stiff competition to acquire Deandre. NBA insider Jake Weinbach notes that several teams, including the Golden State Warriors, Charlotte Hornets, and Boston Celtics, might soon express interest in Ayton.
Which other centers are the Los Angeles Lakers targeting for the 2025–26 season?
In a bid to bolster their center position, the Los Angeles Lakers, under the guidance of Rob Pelinka, are considering several strategic options. Although DeAndre Ayton remains a viable candidate, Pelinka is also evaluating Brook Lopez and Clint Capela as potential additions, as reported by Dan Woike of The Athletic.
On the one hand, Brook Lopez, despite being the senior option at 36, garners significant support from Lakers fans. The Milwaukee Bucks veteran demonstrated remarkable durability in the 2024-25 season, appearing in 80 games. He delivered a solid performance, averaging 13 points and contributing 5.0 rebounds per game, solidifying his value as a pivotal component of his team.
On the other hand, Clint Capela of the Atlanta Hawks, though he played only 55 games last season, showcased his defensive prowess. While he averaged 8.9 points and 8.5 rebounds per game, the dip in his offensive output raises questions. However, if Capela can regain his top form, he could become an invaluable asset to the Lakers. Yet, this option presents some risk and has not won unanimous approval from the fanbase.