Here’s a solid 300‑word overview:
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Following the acquisition of Deandre Ayton on a two‑year, ~$16.6M deal (with a player option in Year 2) via buyout from Portland, the Lakers are already targeting further upgrades to round out their roster .
1. Center depth ✅
Los Angeles isn’t stopping with Ayton—they’re exploring additional interior upgrades. Their wish list includes Phoenix’s Nick Richards, New Orleans’ Yves Missi, and a reunion with Boston’s Robert Williams III . Richards, on an expiring contract, could be scooped via buyout for ~$5M, while Missi and Williams offer different skillsets—Missi for youth and defensive upside, and Williams for athletic shot‑blocking.
2. Wing/defensive guard
With remaining bi‑annual exception and minimum contracts, the Lakers are eyeing De’Anthony Melton, a high‑IQ defender who “plays bigger than his size” . Melton—alongside interest in veteran Al Horford—would enhance their perimeter defense against elite backcourts.
3. Trade flexibility & veteran signings
General Manager Rob Pelinka retains tradable pieces such as Gabe Vincent and Maxi Kleber ($11M combined), among others, along with future draft maneuverability in 2031/32 . That could set LA up for mid‑season moves, possibly rekindling talks for Miami’s Andrew Wiggins or Boston’s Robert Williams III .
Bottom line
The Lakers have addressed their biggest need—center depth—with Ayton. Next, they’re intent on building complementary pieces: floor-spacing, defense, and flexibility. Whether through free agency or trades, the goal remains the same—construct a championship-caliber roster around LeBron and Luka, mixing proven veterans with cost-effective assets and upside players .
In short, the Lakers aren’t done: they’re tuning up their frontcourt and guard rotation, preserving trade ammunition, and laying foundations for both a championship run in 2025–26 and sustained roster flexibility for the fut
ure.
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