The Los Angeles Lakers are exploring multiple avenues to reshape their roster this offseason, with ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reporting that Luka Doncic has communicated at least one key preference to the organization’s decision-makers: finding a high-level center.
According to McMenamin, Doncic has remained in contact with LeBron James and Austin Reaves since the season ended but is not actively involved in recruiting players or directing the Lakers’ offseason strategy. Still, the All-NBA guard has made clear that upgrading the frontcourt is a priority as Los Angeles looks to build on a 53-29 season that ended in a second-round sweep against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Lakers have already conducted due diligence on several restricted free agents, including centers Jalen Duren and Walker Kessler. They have also monitored versatile young forwards Peyton Watson and Tari Eason, two players who could strengthen the team’s defensive identity.
The center position stands out as the most obvious area of need. While Deandre Ayton provided efficiency, averaging 12.5 points and 8.0 rebounds while shooting 67.1% from the field in 72 games, Los Angeles struggled to match Oklahoma City’s physicality and rim pressure during the playoffs.
Duren represents one of the most ambitious targets on the market. The 22-year-old earned his first All-Star appearance and an All-NBA Third Team selection after averaging 19.5 points, 10.5 rebounds and shooting 65.0% from the field across 70 games. He played a major role in Detroit’s rise to the NBA-best 60-22 record in the Eastern Conference.
However, acquiring Duren would be extremely difficult. League executives reportedly expect him to command more than $30 million annually in restricted free agency, and the Pistons have every incentive to retain a centerpiece of their young core.
Kessler could be a more realistic target if tensions with the Utah Jazz continue. The 24-year-old reportedly declined an extension offer worth nearly $140 million over five years and is entering restricted free agency after an injury-shortened season. Before a torn labrum limited him to five games in 2025-26, Kessler averaged 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.8 blocks while shooting 70.3% from the field.
His skill set aligns naturally with Doncic’s strengths. Kessler is an elite lob finisher, strong rebounder and proven rim protector, attributes that could complement a Lakers offense led by a playmaker who averaged 33.5 points, 8.3 assists and 7.7 rebounds this season.
The Lakers’ interest extends beyond centers. Watson emerged as a key contributor for Denver, averaging 14.6 points while shooting 49.1% from the field and 41.1% from three-point range.
Eason offers a different profile but addresses similar needs. The Rockets forward averaged 10.5 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.2 steals while providing defensive energy across multiple positions.