But in recent seasons, the Lakers have struggled to find consistent and physical presence in the paint.
After being outmuscled by elite frontcourts and lacking rim protection when Anthony Davis sits or shifts to power forward, the Lakers are on the hunt again this time, with precision.
The 2024–25 season highlighted a clear flaw in the Lakers’ roster construction: they simply didn’t have the interior toughness and size to compete with the league’s best. Opponents routinely punished them on the boards, second-chance points became a nightmare, and interior defense crumbled late in games.
With Anthony Davis often preferring to play power forward, the need for a reliable, traditional center has become glaring. As free agency and trade talks heat up, the Lakers’ front office is setting its sights on proven, hard-nosed veterans to fill the gap.
Al Horford of the Boston Celtics emerges as a prime candidate. A seasoned veteran and defensive anchor, Horford brings leadership, playoff experience, and versatile two-way play. His ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting makes him a seamless fit next to Davis. While age is a factor, his basketball IQ and durability make him a top target if the Celtics are willing to part ways.
Steven Adams of the Memphis Grizzlies is another name on the radar. One of the toughest and most physical centers in the league, Adams would immediately add grit to the Lakers’ paint. Known for his rebounding, screen-setting, and rim protection, Adams could thrive in a reduced but focused role alongside Davis and LeBron James. If Memphis is open to retooling, Adams could be a real possibility.
Kevon Looney from the Golden State Warriors also makes sense. Looney may not be flashy, but he’s as steady as they come. A proven winner with championship experience, he brings hustle, rebounding, and switchable defense. His ability to do the dirty work without demanding touches would make him a valuable addition to the Lakers’ rotation.
Clint Capela of the Atlanta Hawks is another option worth exploring. Still in his prime, Capela is a shot-blocking and lob-catching machine. He’d offer the Lakers an athletic, vertical spacer on offense and a deterrent on defense. If Atlanta enters a rebuilding phase, Capela could be pried away via trade.
The Lakers know time is of the essence. With LeBron James’ championship window closing, the pressure is on to make win-now moves. Bringing in one of these proven big men especially someone like Horford or Adams could be the key to reestablishing dominance down low.
The Lakers’ center problem may soon become a thing of the past. With grit, experience, and size potentially on the way, the paint could once again become a purple-and-gold fortress.
