The Los Angeles Lakers could be gearing up for another major frontcourt move as reports suggest that the team might pursue Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford – a $54 million shot-blocking, lob-finishing big man who once thrived alongside Luka Dončić. This potential trade could strengthen the Lakers’ interior presence and give Dončić, who joined Los Angeles in a blockbuster trade last season, another dynamic pick-and-roll partner capable of replicating his previous on-court chemistry with Gafford.
Why the Los Angeles Lakers Are Targeting Another Big Man
Following the acquisition of Deandre Ayton in free agency, Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka addressed one major need at center. However, the Lakers’ interest in Daniel Gafford suggests a desire for added depth and athleticism in their frontcourt. Rim-running centers who can both protect the paint and finish lobs have become a crucial part of modern NBA rotations, especially for teams built around elite playmakers. Dončić’s arrival in Los Angeles has made that archetype even more essential.
Lakers’ Current Frontcourt Depth
Gafford’s Proven Chemistry with Luka Dončić
During his short but impactful tenure with the Mavericks in the second half of the 2023-24 season, Gafford became one of Dončić’s most effective lob partners. In that 29-game stretch, he averaged:
• 11.2 points per game
• 6.9 rebounds per game
• 1.9 blocks per game
• 78.0% shooting from the field
Those numbers underscored Gafford’s efficiency and his ability to maximize scoring opportunities created by Dončić’s elite playmaking. His combination of athleticism and timing made him one of the league’s most dependable backup centers.
A Look at Daniel Gafford’s 2024-25 Season
Daniel Gafford built upon that success in his first full season with Dallas, delivering career-best numbers while anchoring the Mavericks’ second unit.
His impact on both ends of the floor helped solidify Dallas’ frontcourt rotation, making him an invaluable asset – and a potentially difficult player for the Mavericks to part with.
Trade Possibilities and Framework
For Los Angeles to land Gafford, the Los Angeles Lakers might need to put together a compelling package. Reports suggest that a trade involving Dalton Knecht and Jaxson Hayes could be the framework required to make a deal possible. Such a trade would not only bolster the Lakers’ defense and rebounding but also give them an elite rim protector who complements both Ayton and Dončić’s playing styles.
Analyst Insights on the Potential Move
Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz weighed in on the potential trade scenario, writing: “The Los Angeles Lakers signed Deandre Ayton to be their new starting center, although Daniel Gafford may actually fit the roster better as a rim-running center.” (H/t: Sporting News)
Swartz added that Gafford “would be a backup to Ayton with the Lakers but should still get a heavy workload and would be a big upgrade over Jaxson Hayes.”
His assessment aligns with the Los Angeles Lakers’ apparent interest in solidifying their interior defense while maintaining flexibility in their rotation.
What This Move Means for the Lakers
If Los Angeles successfully lands Daniel Gafford, the team would secure one of the league’s top rim-running centers to pair with Dončić, improving both offensive spacing and defensive reliability.
Potential Benefits for the Lakers:
• Enhanced pick-and-roll efficiency with Dončić
• Improved rim protection and shot-blocking
• Stronger bench rotation behind Ayton
• Versatility in frontcourt lineups
As the 2025-26 trade deadline approaches, the Los Angeles Lakers’ pursuit of Daniel Gafford could be one of the more intriguing storylines to watch — a move that might not only enhance their roster balance but also bring Dončić closer to championship contention once again.
