The Los Angeles Lakers are in advanced discussions with three centers this summer as they seek to bolster their frontcourt depth and provide better protection for superstar Luka Dončić, according to league sources and team executives. With Dončić’s offensive versatility already transforming the franchise, general manager Rob Pelinka and coach Darvin Ham have prioritized finding a physical presence capable of anchoring the paint while maintaining mobility to counter modern offenses.
Dončić, the NBA’s reigning MVP, has redefined the modern forward position, averaging 29.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per game last season. However, the Lakers’ lack of a true center has left them vulnerable to switch-heavy defenses and rim protection challenges. Pelinka has repeatedly emphasized the need for a versatile big man who can guard multiple positions—a profile that aligns with the three players reportedly under consideration.
According to multiple NBA insiders speaking to NBA.com and ESPN, the Lakers are focusing on Victor Wembanyama, Domantas Sabonis, and Jaren Jackson Jr., though trade dynamics and salary cap constraints could alter the final outcome. The team’s pursuit comes as they navigate free agency with a roster already stacked with All-Stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Why the Lakers’ Center Search Matters
The Lakers’ quest for a center isn’t just about rim protection—it’s about redefining their identity. Dončić’s rise has made Los Angeles one of the NBA’s most dynamic offenses, but the lack of a true big man has exposed weaknesses in transition defense and late-game matchups. League sources note that Pelinka’s target profile now includes players who can:
- Guard multiple positions (critical against switch-heavy schemes).
- Operate as a secondary playmaker (to complement Dončić’s ball-dominant style).
- Provide elite rim protection (to limit fast-break points against).
With the 2024 NBA Draft approaching, the Lakers could also explore trading for a top pick to address the need, though insiders suggest Pelinka remains focused on free agency as his first priority.
Three Centers Leading the Lakers’ Target List
1. Victor Wembanyama – San Antonio Spurs
The 2023 No. 1 overall pick is the Lakers’ top priority, according to NBA draft analysts. At 7’4” with unmatched athleticism, Wembanyama offers a rare blend of size, mobility, and defensive versatility. His ability to guard all five positions could immediately solve the Lakers’ biggest defensive weakness.
However, the Spurs are unlikely to trade him without a blockbuster return, and Wembanyama’s agent, Rich Paul, has hinted at a long-term commitment to San Antonio. The Lakers would need to offer a package including multiple first-round picks and a star-level player to pry him loose.
2. Domantas Sabonis – Sacramento Kings
Sabonis, a two-time All-Star, fits the Lakers’ need for a versatile big man who can initiate offense and guard multiple positions. His 2022-23 season—where he averaged 18.5 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 5.6 assists—demonstrated his ability to be a primary option, a trait Pelinka has sought in recent years.
The Kings, however, are rebuilding and may not entertain trade offers unless they receive a top-tier prospect in return. Insiders suggest the Lakers could explore a sign-and-trade scenario, but Sabonis’ $38 million salary for 2024-25 could limit flexibility.
3. Jaren Jackson Jr. – Memphis Grizzlies
Jackson Jr. is the most attainable target on this list, with the Grizzlies reportedly willing to trade him for the right package. The 2018 No. 3 pick has evolved into a reliable two-way center, averaging 14.5 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game last season. His defensive intensity and ability to guard multiple positions make him an appealing fit alongside Dončić.
Memphis’ front office, however, may demand a younger player or a higher draft pick to part ways with Jackson Jr., who is entering the final year of his contract. The Lakers could also consider a sign-and-trade deal to avoid dead cap space issues.
How the Lakers’ Financial Landscape Shapes Their Options
The Lakers’ pursuit of a center is complicated by their salary cap situation. With LeBron James (age 40) and Anthony Davis (age 31) under contract through 2025-26, the team must navigate a crowded roster while avoiding luxury tax penalties. According to Basketball Insider’s cap projections, Los Angeles has approximately $60 million in cap space entering free agency, a figure that could shrink if they re-sign Davis or pursue another star.
Pelinka has ruled out trading Davis or LeBron, leaving him to work within these constraints. Insiders suggest the Lakers may explore a sign-and-trade with a team willing to absorb a portion of a center’s salary, freeing up additional cap space. For example, trading for Jackson Jr. could allow Los Angeles to retain more flexibility for future moves.
Key Dates: Lakers’ Center Strategy in 2024
The Lakers’ center search will unfold in three critical phases:
- June 26, 2024 – NBA Draft: The Lakers hold the No. 1 overall pick (via trade with the Spurs) and could use it to address their frontcourt needs. Wembanyama remains the top target, but other prospects like Brandon Miller or Amen could also fit the mold.
- July 1, 2024 – Free Agency Begins: The Lakers will compete for available centers, though their cap space may limit options. Insiders suggest they could explore a sign-and-trade with the Kings or Grizzlies to acquire Sabonis or Jackson Jr.
- July 10, 2024 – NBA Free Agency Deadline: The Lakers must finalize their roster before training camps begin. If no center is secured, Pelinka may need to adjust his plans, possibly trading for a big man in the offseason.
How a Center Would Transform the Lakers’ Future
The addition of a true center would complete the Lakers’ rebuild around Dončić, creating a roster capable of contending for multiple championships. Analysts at Sports Illustrated note that Dončić’s offensive impact is already elite, but his defensive limitations have become a liability in playoff matchups. A versatile big man would:
- Improve rim protection, reducing fast-break points against.
- Provide a secondary playmaker to space the floor alongside Dončić.
- Offer positional flexibility to counter modern offenses.
If the Lakers secure one of these targets, they could shift from a perimeter-driven offense to a true small-ball lineup, a strategy that has worked for teams like the Denver Nuggets and Phoenix Suns. However, failure to address the position could leave them vulnerable in the Western Conference’s increasingly physical playoff landscape.
FAQ: What You Need to Know
Q: Could the Lakers trade for Victor Wembanyama?
A: It’s unlikely unless the Spurs offer a blockbuster package. Wembanyama’s agent has indicated he wants to stay in San Antonio long-term, and the Spurs have shown no interest in trading him. The Lakers would need to include multiple first-round picks and a star player to make it happen.
Q: Would Domantas Sabonis be a good fit?
A: Yes—his offensive versatility and defensive IQ would complement Dončić well. However, the Kings are unlikely to trade him without a top-tier prospect, and his salary ($38M) could strain the Lakers’ cap space.
Q: Is Jaren Jackson Jr. the safest option?
A: Yes. Jackson Jr. is a reliable two-way center who fits the Lakers’ defensive needs. The Grizzlies may trade him for a younger player or draft pick, making him the most attainable target on this list.
Q: What if the Lakers don’t find a center this summer?
A: Pelinka could explore a sign-and-trade in the offseason or use the 2024 Draft to address the position. However, without a big man, the Lakers risk leaving their defense exposed in the playoffs.
The Lakers’ center search will reach its first major checkpoint on June 26, 2024, when the 2024 NBA Draft takes place. If they fail to secure a big man through the draft or free agency, Pelinka may need to pivot to a trade in the offseason. For now, the focus remains on Wembanyama, Sabonis, and Jackson Jr.—three players who could redefine Los Angeles’ championship aspirations.
What do you think? Should the Lakers prioritize a trade for Wembanyama, or is Jackson Jr. the smarter play? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow World Today Journal’s Sports section for the latest updates on the Lakers’ roster moves.