In a stunning move, Rob Pelinka and the Lakers have reshaped their future, trading Anthony Davis and Max Christie to the Mavericks for Luka Dončić, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris. The deal sent shockwaves through the NBA, giving LeBron James a new co-star but leaving L.A. thin in the frontcourt. With AD gone, the Lakers now face a pressing need for a rim protector. Here’s a deep dive into their best options—and what assets they have to make it happen.
Lakers Players and Picks Are in Play—Who’s Safe?
In the aftermath of a blockbuster trade, one of the biggest questions for the Lakers’ front office is how they view the remaining roster. Does this mean everyone except Luka Dončić and LeBron James is on the table? Who fits around them?
Austin Reaves is having a career year, making it hard to believe L.A. is actively shopping him. Dorian Finney-Smith and Jarred Vanderbilt are two of their best perimeter defenders, and with LeBron and Luka on the floor together, defense is at a premium.
Mark Williams and Jaxson Hayes are now the only experienced bigs on the roster and could step into the starting role. On paper, these players should be safe—but Dončić probably thought he was untouchable, too.
Gabe Vincent and Rui Hachimura are names to watch. Vincent has been in trade rumors for two seasons, and Hachimura’s role becomes less defined with Luka in town. The Lakers aren't in control of their first-round picks from now through 2031 but have multiple second-rounders.
What players are available?
The center market is thin, but a couple of names keep coming up: Walker Kessler and Robert Williams III.
Kessler is the ideal fit—young, on a rookie deal, and an elite rim protector—but he’s also the least attainable. Danny Ainge is reportedly asking for multiple picks, and as a former Celtics GM, he’s in no hurry to help the Lakers.
He made more sense next to Anthony Davis, a player who could cover his offensive gaps. With Luka in the mix, the Lakers need an athletic lob threat—something Kessler doesn't provide but Williams does. Still, the Lakers need more size to make sure that they can compete against the likes of Nikola Jokic, Alperin Sengun, and Victor Wembanyama.
Robert Williams' $12 million salary lines up in a one-for-one swap with Hachimura, but Portland is already deep at forward. L.A. could explore a three-team deal, but if nothing materializes, Rob Pelinka may have to wait until the summer to further address their center depth.
For now, Mark Williams is the starter and Hayes is the backup. Whether that changes before the deadline remains to be seen.