While the Lakers sit at 8-4 to begin the season, there’s no denying upgrades must be made in light of injuries and holes in the rotation. A familiar and polarizing trade partner could answer the call with new executives sharing the driver’s seat.
Could Lakers Pursue Mavericks Big After Nico Harrison’s Dismissal?
Insiders Reconnect Daniel Gafford to Lakers
Should the Dallas Mavericks opt for a full reset after Nico Harrison’s exit, some writers have named Daniel Gafford as a potential trade candidate. ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel mentioned the Lakers’ interest in the 27-year-old dating back to last season. Granted, his report came days before Harrison was fired, but it may not be out of the realm of possibility with other executives temporarily in charge.
Gafford, who is earning $14.3 million this season ahead of a three-year extension, is averaging 9.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.3 blocks and one assist per game. The former second-round pick of the 2019 draft has served as a decent backup throughout his career. However, he has recently entered the starting lineup with Dereck Lively II (knee) sidelined.
Mavs Big Man Would Be Major Upgrade as Lakers’ Backup
Gafford is an athletic lob threat who already boasts chemistry with Luka Doncic, along with deep postseason experience and solid rim protection. Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley called a Gafford trade a “no brainer” for the Lakers, citing how the former Arkansas big man adds depth behind Deandre Ayton and makes up for what Ayton lacks in terms of running to the rim. In a separate story on Wednesday, he noted that reuniting Gafford with Doncic and adding him with James and Austin Reaves may “[pave] the Purple and Gold’s path to the championship round.”
The recent struggles of Jaxson Hayes, who is averaging 4.9 points and 4.1 rebounds in 17 minutes of action, could also expedite the need for a change in the middle. And aside from Ayton and Hayes, forward-center Maxi Kleber has just returned from an abdominal strain. However, he’s on an expiring $11 million contract and likely won’t be a factor in the team’s rotation this year.
While Gafford’s salary and looming extension may be concerning for other teams, it could be a good investment for the Lakers as they look to return to their winning ways with James and prepare for a new era with Doncic. Should the Mavs change their tune and Gafford becomes available, he would check many of the boxes the Lakers need to address, and his familiarity with Luka is an added bonus.
The Last Word on Lakers, Daniel Gafford
Although it’s unlikely the Mavs will trade with the Lakers again, things could change between now and February—especially if Rob Pelinka makes a worthy offer. It’s important for LA to monitor Dallas’ situation in hopes that one of their desired targets becomes available.
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