Lakers’ Trade Deadline Approach: What’s Next After Landing Luka Dončić?
With roughly 24 hours remaining before the NBA trade deadline, the Los Angeles Lakers find themselves in a unique position. By acquiring 25-year-old superstar Luka Dončić from the Dallas Mavericks in a blockbuster deal, the team has reshaped its future while also improving its chances of contending immediately.
However, sources close to the team indicate that the front office, led by General Manager Rob Pelinka, isn’t done making moves. Internally, there is a newfound sense of optimism about competing this season, but there are still gaps to fill in order to maximize the roster around Dončić and LeBron James.
Addressing Immediate Needs
Pelinka has openly acknowledged at least one pressing need: defensive depth, particularly in the frontcourt. Trading away Anthony Davis as part of the Dončić deal leaves the Lakers vulnerable in the paint, with only Jaxson Hayes and Christian Wood remaining as traditional big men. While Dončić’s offensive prowess adds a new dimension to the Lakers’ attack, the team still needs to address its rim protection and rebounding deficiencies.
One name that has surfaced in trade talks is Atlanta Hawks center Clint Capela, who could provide much-needed interior presence. Another potential option is Brooklyn’s Nic Claxton, though acquiring him would require parting with additional assets.
Wing Depth and Perimeter Defense
Beyond a center, the Lakers could also benefit from adding a versatile wing defender. Jarred Vanderbilt’s injury has left them thin at that position, and while Rui Hachimura and Taurean Prince offer offensive versatility, they don’t necessarily provide elite perimeter defense. Reports suggest the Lakers have been inquiring about players like Toronto’s OG Anunoby (though he may be out of reach) and Brooklyn’s Dorian Finney-Smith, both of whom would bolster the team’s ability to guard elite wings in a potential playoff series.
Managing the LeBron-Donić Dynamic
The addition of Dončić has sparked discussions about how he and LeBron will coexist on the court. Both are ball-dominant playmakers, but sources within the Lakers organization believe that their skill sets can complement each other—much like LeBron’s past partnerships with stars such as Dwyane Wade and Kyrie Irving. The key will be surrounding them with the right role players to ensure floor spacing and defensive stability.
One trade possibility to watch is the Lakers moving D’Angelo Russell, who has been inconsistent and may not be the ideal fit alongside Dončić. If the Lakers can package Russell with draft assets, they could target a more defensive-minded guard or an additional wing to balance the rotation.
Final Deadline Moves?
The Lakers are expected to remain active up until the final moments of the trade deadline. They still have a 2029 first-round pick available to include in a deal, as well as smaller contracts that could be aggregated to match salaries for a key role player. Whether Pelinka chooses to make another splash or opts for marginal upgrades, the Lakers’ front office clearly believes that this team, with Dončić now in the mix, has a legitimate shot at contending for a championship.
The next 24 hours will be crucial in determining just how far they’re willing to go to maximize their new superstar duo.
