The Los Angeles Lakers are evaluating trade options for a long-term rim-running center, and Daniel Gafford is emerging as a top target, according to Bleacher Report’s NBA insider Jake Fischer.
Even with DeAndre Ayton exceeding expectations in Los Angeles, the Lakers reportedly want a true pick-and-roll lob threat for Luka Dončić — someone with whom Dončić already has proven deep-playoff chemistry. Gafford, who helped Dončić reach the Western Conference Finals and NBA Finals during their time together in Dallas, fits that description better than any available big man.
Gafford’s Contract and Production Make Him a Prime Target
Since arriving in Dallas, Gafford has showcased elite efficiency and rim protection. He is averaging 10.3 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game while shooting 66.1% from the field this 2025-26 season.
His 1.6 blocks per game is tied with Milwaukee’s Myles Turner for 10th among this season’s leaders.
Moreover, his three-year, $54 million extension was specifically structured to allow a trade this season.
“They avoided the six-month trade restriction… keeping up that flexibility and optionality for him to get dealt,” Fischer said.
Ayton Producing, But Not the Ideal Fit
The Lakers’ current starter, Ayton, is averaging 16.5 points, 8.8 rebounds and 0.9 blocks per game, while shooting an efficient 69.9% from the field — ranking among the league’s most efficient bigs.
His block rate, however, is significantly lower than Gafford’s, placing Ayton outside the top tier of rim-protecting centers.
The Lakers reportedly want a big man who can finish lobs, deter drives, and relieve defensive pressure in the pick-and-roll — a profile Gafford aligns with more precisely than Ayton’s mid-range and post-touch game.
Plus, Ayton is a flight risk if he continues to play out of his bargain deal. He holds an $8.1 million player option for next season.
Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent as Trade Pieces?
Fischer reports that Los Angeles has enough outgoing salary to construct a deal, with veterans like Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent often cited as potential trade pieces.
“They have a good chunk if they combine Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent,” Fischer said, noting that the Lakers will only commit significant assets if they believe a move is necessary.
Lakers Not Rushing Into a Trade
Despite interest, the Lakers are not expected to rush.
Their 11-4 start gives them room to assess whether the current core can compete before sacrificing draft capital.
“See what this group really looks like… before they really push their chips in,” Fischer said.
Why Gafford Over Other Bigs
Other available centers, such as Domantas Sabonis, are less likely targets due to larger contracts and less ideal athleticism for Dončić’s game. Gafford offers elite rim protection (1.6 BPG this year), high finishing efficiency (66.1% FG), a manageable contract ($18Mper year) and proven chemistry with Dončić in playoff runs.
Fischer puts Gafford at the top of the Lakers’ trade target list for lob threats.
“Who better to go after than someone who had massive success alongside Dončić?” Fischer asked.
Most Realistic Trade Target
While the Lakers are performing well, Gafford remains the most realistic and impactful trade target to complement Dončić. With his contract flexibility, elite rim-protection and finishing ability, Gafford fits the puzzle more cleanly than any other big man — and his 1.6 blocks per game rank him among the best defensive centers available.
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