The Los Angeles Lakers have undergone one of the most dramatic transformations in recent NBA memory. Trading Anthony Davis for Luka Dončić signaled a philosophical pivot from the power-and-defense identity that defined the team since 2020. With Dončić orchestrating the offense, the Lakers now emphasize elite playmaking, perimeter creation, and scoring versatility. The subsequent acquisition of DeAndre Ayton reinforced this offensive-minded approach, adding size, touch, and scoring ability—but it left a glaring gap on defense.
Support Local and Independent Sports Writing – Subscribe To the LAFB Network Today!
Daniel Gafford: The Rim Protector They Need
Gotta have the Latest from LAFB + LUKA Mind-meld
While Ayton is mobile and capable in switches, he does not intimidate slashers or deter drives to the basket. That is precisely where Daniel Gafford comes in. Gafford challenges everything around the rim, controlling vertical space in ways few centers can. Offensively, he does not demand touches but thrives as a screener, finisher, and space-creator alongside playmakers like LeBron James and Dončić. “Several teams are monitoring Daniel Gafford’s status, sources said. One of the teams with strong interest dating back to last season is the Los Angeles Lakers,” reported Brett Siegel.
Pairing Ayton’s scoring and rebounding with Gafford’s defensive presence would give the Lakers a versatile center rotation, capable of dictating games through finesse or force—a crucial advantage in the playoffs.
Austin Reaves: The Emerging Third Star
While Dončić and LeBron capture headlines, Austin Reaves has quietly emerged as the Lakers’ connective star. He smooths possessions, scores as needed, and now shapes how opponents defend Los Angeles. His growth underscores the urgency of adding Gafford. Guards carrying heavy creation loads require rim protection, and Gafford provides the structural support Reaves, Dončić, and James need to thrive.
Trade Feasibility and Timing
With Dallas struggling and evaluating its roster, Gafford’s availability is plausible. Marc Stein notes the Mavericks have yet to consider trading him due to injuries to Dereck Lively II, but if Dallas pivots toward a rebuild, a Gafford-to-Lakers move would make immediate sense. Los Angeles holds expiring contracts and tradeable assets such as Gabe Vincent, Rui Hachimura, Jaxson Hayes, and Maxi Kleber that could facilitate a deal.
The Strategic Imperative
The Lakers’ 7-3 start demonstrates potential, yet it also exposes defensive weaknesses—21st in defensive efficiency and minus-14.5 net differential at center. Adding Gafford addresses both weaknesses and ensures the team can maximize Reaves’ emergence, preserve Ayton’s offensive strengths, and capitalize on the championship window with LeBron and Dončić. The move may seem bold, but it could be the structural upgrade the Lakers need to contend in the loaded Western Conference.