The Los Angeles Lakers made a bold move in February by trading for Luka Dončić, a generational talent and elite playmaker. While Dončić’s addition adds offensive firepower and star appeal, the trade came at a steep cost: the departure of Anthony Davis, their defensive anchor and primary rim protector. With Davis gone, the Lakers now face a pressing issue — a glaring hole at the center position.
The Post-AD Void
Anthony Davis was more than just a traditional center. His versatility on both ends of the floor made him a key asset in LA’s defensive schemes and transition offense. His ability to guard multiple positions, block shots, and space the floor on offense made him irreplaceable. With his exit, the Lakers are vulnerable in the paint, both offensively and defensively.
Who Can Fill the Gap?
To remain competitive in a loaded Western Conference, the Lakers must address this issue immediately. Several veteran centers and role players could potentially fill the void:
1. Al Horford (Boston Celtics)
Horford is a seasoned veteran known for his high basketball IQ, leadership, and defensive prowess. He may not be in his prime, but his experience and ability to stretch the floor with his shooting could benefit the Lakers’ offense. His presence in the locker room would also be invaluable for a team transitioning into a new era with Dončić.
2. Steven Adams (Memphis Grizzlies)
Adams is a traditional bruiser in the paint. He excels at rebounding, setting hard screens, and defending the low post. While not a scorer, Adams could anchor the Lakers’ defense and provide toughness in the middle, something the team sorely misses post-Davis.
3. Kevon Looney (Golden State Warriors)
Looney has made a name for himself as a reliable, unselfish big who thrives in a team-oriented system. He’s not flashy, but his rebounding and switchability on defense make him a solid option to shore up LA’s interior.
4. Precious Achiuwa (Toronto Raptors)
A younger, more athletic option, Achiuwa offers upside as a mobile big who can block shots and run the floor. He’s still developing, but under the right system, he could blossom into a key rotational player or even a long-term starter.
Cap Considerations
The Lakers will need to navigate a tight salary cap situation. With Dončić on a max contract and other high-salary players still on the roster, any acquisition must be both strategic and cap-friendly. This likely limits their options to veteran minimum contracts, mid-level exceptions, or trades involving draft assets or expiring deals.
The Likeliest Path Forward
Given the limited financial flexibility, the Lakers are most likely to pursue one of the following strategies:
Trade for a reliable veteran center on a short contract.
Sign a free-agent big man using the mid-level exception.
Promote player development for younger centers already on the roster.
The center position won’t be as dynamic without Davis, but with the right additions, the Lakers can still be a balanced team capable of contending in the playoffs.
Final Thoughts
While Luka Dončić may be the new face of the franchise, basketball is a team sport — and no team wins without rim protection and presence inside the paint. The Lakers’ front office must act decisively this offseason to shore up the middle and give Dončić the support he needs to lead LA back to championship contention.
