Lakers evaluate roster options to address frontcourt depth
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 3, 2026, 11:29 AM
Last updated Sep 3, 2026
The Los Angeles Lakers are exploring options to bolster their frontcourt rotation ahead of training camp. After missing out on Jonathan Kuminga and seeing Nick Richards sign with the Miami Heat, the team faces a dwindling pool of available centers. Dwight Powell has emerged as a potential free agent target due to his previous tenure playing alongside Luka Doncic in Dallas. Beyond free agency, the team remains linked to trade discussions involving Jalen Smith of the Chicago Bulls and Jericho Sims of the Milwaukee Bucks. With 16 players currently on the roster and $8.1 million in available cap space, the front office must decide whether to sign a veteran minimum contract or navigate trade constraints to add depth. No formal reports have confirmed specific trade interest at this time.
- •Dwight Powell is considered a potential free agent target for the Los Angeles Lakers.
- •The team holds $8.1 million in cap space but currently has 16 players under contract.
- •Jalen Smith and Jericho Sims are identified as possible trade targets for center depth.
- •Nick Richards is no longer an option after signing with the Miami Heat.
- 11:29 AMYahoo Sports — Luka Doncic Reunion Rumors Heat Up as Lakers Consider Bringing 35-Year-Old Ex-Teammate to LA
- 1:31 AMYahoo Sports — Luka Doncic’s Former Teammate Could Be Ideal For Lakers’ Big Man Rotation
"The Los Angeles Lakers are looking to strengthen their roster around star guard Luka Doncic before the 2026-27 NBA season starts. After missing out on forward Jonathan Kuminga, the Lakers are linked to Doncic’s former teammate as a potential offseason acquisition. Dwight Powell, a 35-year-old big man, is reportedly the team’s last offseason acquisition. Powell [...]
"As the Lakers continue to seek out roster upgrades, Luka Doncic's former teammate emerges as a promising free agent target.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 3, 2026, 11:29 AMLuka Doncic Reunion Rumors Heat Up as Lakers Consider Bringing 35-Year-Old Ex-Teammate to LA
The Los Angeles Lakers are looking to strengthen their roster around star guard Luka Doncic before the 2026-27 NBA season starts. After missing out on forward Jonathan Kuminga, the Lakers are linked to Doncic’s former teammate as a potential offseason acquisition. Dwight Powell, a 35-year-old big man, is reportedly the team’s last offseason acquisition. Powell [...]
- Yahoo SportsSep 1, 2026, 1:31 AMLuka Doncic’s Former Teammate Could Be Ideal For Lakers’ Big Man Rotation
As the Lakers continue to seek out roster upgrades, Luka Doncic's former teammate emerges as a promising free agent target.
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