Lakers propose trade for Daniel Gafford to bolster center position

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 29, 2026, 5:08 AM

Last updated Sep 29, 2026

Lakers propose trade for Daniel Gafford to bolster center position
Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers are considering a trade to acquire center Daniel Gafford as they approach training camp before the regular season begins on October 21. The proposed deal involves a three-team exchange with the Dallas Mavericks and Charlotte Hornets, which would send Grayson Allen, Jaden Hardy, and Dalton Knecht to Dallas, while Caleb Martin and Jarred Vanderbilt would go to Charlotte. The addition of Gafford addresses the Lakers’ need for a robust backup center, as current centers Walker Kessler and Kevon Looney struggled with injuries last season. Lakers GM Rob Pelinka expressed confidence in the center rotation, but the trade aims to enhance depth ahead of the competitive season.

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Market Watch
  • •Lakers negotiate for Daniel Gafford in proposed three-team trade.
  • •Current centers Kessler and Looney played just 26 games last season.
  • •Proposed trade sends Allen, Hardy, and Knecht to Mavericks.
  • •Lakers plan to reduce their roster size from 16 to 14 players.
  • •The regular season starts for the Lakers against the Golden State Warriors on October 21.
Latest Updates
  • 5:08 AMYahoo Sports — Lakers Proposed to Land $54M Center in 3-Team Trade to Finalize Roster
What they're saying
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The following Lakers trade idea gives JJ Redick a proven, NBA Finals-tested big man who can also slide into the starting lineup. The post Lakers Proposed to Land $54M Center in 3-Team Trade to Finalize Roster appeared first on HEAVY.

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