The Los Angeles Lakers are exploring options to strengthen their frontcourt, considering a defensive-minded center to complement DeAndre Ayton, despite him averaging 15.9 points and 8.3 rebounds on 69.2% shooting as defensive gaps remain.
Ayton’s scoring efficiency masks defensive inconsistencies as The Lakers front office may target a more versatile big man to improve rim protection and interior defense, while providing competition and rotation flexibility.
And the Dallas Mavericks’ current struggles create trade opportunities as with a 3-10 record, a recently fired GM, and Anthony Davis frequently sidelined, Daniel Gafford could become a key trade candidate for teams like Los Angeles.
Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley projects a potential deal sending Gafford to the Lakers for Jarred Vanderbilt, Dalton Knecht, and a top-four-protected 2031 first-round pick, aiming to address L.A.’s defensive efficiency near the paint.
“The vibes feel pretty great in Laker Land so far,” Buckley said. “But some numbers suggest this squad might be playing above its heads.
“It’s hard to buy into a championship ending for a team ranked 23rd in defensive efficiency.
“Gafford, whose interior presence and lob-finishing are exactly what L.A. needs, has experience reaching the Finals with Luka Doncic.
“Reuniting that duo with LeBron and Reaves could help pave a path to the championship.”
Gafford is under contract through 2029 and has averaged 9.5 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks on 64.6% shooting in eight games this season. His defensive versatility could complement the Lakers’ frontcourt rotation effectively.
Adding Gafford may also encourage Ayton to improve defensively whilst his activity around the basket and ability to finish lobs could pair well with LeBron James and Austin Reaves while protecting the rim against elite opponents.
Ayton’s minus-14.4 net differential underscores the need for a defensive-minded center. Gafford could help limit opponents’ high-percentage shots and improve pick-and-roll coverage, strengthening the Lakers’ interior defense.
Meanwhile, Doncic and Reaves have averaged 62.3 points, 17.4 assists, and 13.9 rebounds combined, as their production allows the Lakers to remain competitive despite interior defensive struggles against high-caliber teams.
Could Lakers be set to land Giannis boost ahead of Bucks clash?
The Lakers’ upcoming matchup on November 15 against the Milwaukee Bucks presents a test, but they could land a boost as Giannis Antetokounmpo is listed as probable due to lingering left knee patellar tendinopathy.
That means his availability for Saturday’s game is uncertain due to back-to-back scheduling after Antetokounmpo scored 25 points with 18 assists, seven rebounds, two steals, and one block in a Friday overtime win against the Charlotte Hornets.
His participation against the Lakers could significantly influence the game, particularly in the paint so if he is out then that’s a big win in the favor of Luka Doncic ahead of kick-off.
“This year is not the year of excuses,” Antetokounmpo said. “It’s easy to say, ‘It’s back-to-back, we got in late,’ but good teams don’t lose two in a row.”
Securing a defensive-minded center like Gafford could allow the Lakers to bolster interior defense while maintaining offensive efficiency. Pairing such a player with Ayton, LeBron, and Reaves may improve their championship prospects.
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