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Lakers pursue starting center upgrade as free agency approaches

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 11:30 AM

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

Lakers pursue starting center upgrade as free agency approaches

Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers are focused on upgrading their starting center as they head into the offseason. ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne notes that the Lakers are considering centers Jalen Duren and Walker Kessler as they aim to build a stronger team around guard Luka Dončić. The Lakers reportedly have three tradeable first-round picks and about $50 million in cap space to facilitate a trade or sign players in free agency. With Dončić recovering from an injury and pressure mounting to enhance the roster, the Lakers’ front office is exploring various strategies to acquire an 'A-list center'. Improving this position is seen as crucial for competitiveness in the Western Conference against established stars.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Lakers prioritize center upgrade as offseason approaches
•Target players include restricted free agents Duren and Kessler
•Lakers have three tradeable first-round picks and $50 million in cap space
•Pressure mounts to strengthen team around Luka Dončić
•Potential sign-and-trade options are being considered

Latest Updates

11:30 AMYahoo Sports — ’Very Much in Play’ — NBA Insider Reveals Lakers’ Path to Landing Starting Center Upgrade Over Deandre Ayton

What they're saying

"
The Los Angeles Lakers are eyeing major changes this offseason, with a starting center upgrade among their top priorities as the franchise faces increasing pressure to build a title contender around superstar guard Luka Dončić. As free agency fast approaches, ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne shed light on LA’s most viable path to landing one of the premier big man targets it has been “scouting all year long.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Los Angeles Lakers NBA Basketball