While Giannis Antetokounmpo represents the dream scenario for the Los Angeles Lakers, a more attainable big man — one already familiar with Luka Dončić — could become available at a fraction of the asset cost.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Dallas Mavericks are open to exploring trade markets for several veteran players, including center Daniel Gafford, who has quietly emerged as one of the Lakers’ top targets.
Daniel Gafford Viewed as Strong Fit for Dončić, Lakers System
GettyDaniel Gafford of the Dallas Mavericks shoots the ball over Deandre Ayton of the Los Angeles Lakers.
NBA insider Jake Fischer reported in his Bleacher Report’s Insider Notebook in November that Gafford aligns with what the Lakers are prioritizing — a vertical lob threat who can anchor the pick-and-roll with Dončić and provide rim protection missing from the current frontcourt rotation.
“The Lakers are still undoubtedly going to be looking for long-term pick-and-roll lob threat pairings for Luka Dončić and also for Austin Reaves — but particularly for Luka Dončić,” Fischer said. “And who better to go after than someone who had massive success alongside Dončić in Dallas, where they made the finals together.”
Since arriving in Dallas, Gafford has delivered efficient production, averaging 8.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks while shooting 61% from the field this season. His defensive timing and rim-running ability have been integral to Dallas’ spacing and transition success.
Contractually, the timing favors movement. Gafford’s three-year, $54 million extension was structured specifically with trade flexibility in mind.
“They avoided the six-month trade restriction… keeping up that flexibility and optionality for him to get dealt,” Fischer said.
How Gafford Compares to DeAndre Ayton in Lakers Trade Equation
The Lakers’ current starting center, DeAndre Ayton, has impressed, averaging 15.3 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.1 blocks on an efficient 70.6% shooting, ranking among the league’s most effective finishers.
But the defensive metrics tell another story.
Ayton’s block rate sits below top-tier rim protectors, and his offensive strengths lean more toward mid-range scoring and post touches than sustained pick-and-roll vertical pressure.
The Lakers’ front office reportedly wants a true lob threat who deters drives and takes pressure off Dončić defensively — a profile Gafford fits more precisely.
Another factor: Ayton’s future is not guaranteed in Los Angeles. He holds an $8.1 million player option after this season, making him a potential flight risk if his value spikes beyond the team’s long-term plans.
Fischer noted the Lakers have enough outgoing salary — specifically contracts such as Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent — to construct a deal, but will only commit picks if the value is clear.
“They have a good chunk if they combine Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent,” Fischer said.
Giannis Antetokounmpo Remains Intriguing — But Unlikely — Target
The possibility of Antetokounmpo ultimately requesting a trade remains a subplot to the Lakers’ strategy, but the logistics are daunting.
On Wednesday, Charania reported Antetokounmpo and agent Alex Saratsis have formally opened discussions regarding the star’s future as the Bucks sit at 9–13.
“Conversations have started,” Charania posted on X. “A resolution is expected in the coming weeks.”
However, the Lakers lack the assets to compete if a bidding war begins. Dan Woike of The Athletic called a realistic Lakers-Giannis scenario “found money,” similar to the unforeseen chain of events that brought Dončić to Los Angeles.
“I don’t think the Lakers are particularly close,” Woike said on Lakers Lounge. “It would have to get very ugly for Milwaukee to take pennies on the dollar.”
Woike estimated the Lakers’ best possible offer next summer would consist of three future first-round picks and cap space — a package he assessed bluntly:
“That’s the offer. And that’s not good enough.”
Gafford Represents a Win-Now Move — Without the Giannis Gamble
As the Lakers search for ways to surround Dončić with ideal frontcourt personnel, Gafford stands as a realistic, affordable, and system-fitting option. Antetokounmpo will remain the headline fantasy, but Gafford may be the actionable one.
And for a franchise chasing titles while balancing long-range flexibility, a move grounded in reality and fit may be exactly what Los Angeles needs.
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