The Los Angeles Lakers passed on major trade-deadline moves, completing only a modest swap that sent Gabe Vincent and a second-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks for Luke Kennard. General manager Rob Pelinka told ESPN the front office was “aggressive” in safeguarding the franchise’s short- and long-term outlook, arguing that declining offers can be the boldest stance.
“One form of being aggressive is saying no to moves that might not be best for the future,” Pelinka said, noting that an immediate roster boost can sometimes undermine longer-range plans.
Doncic backs long-term strategy
A source close to Luka Doncic informed ESPN that the All-Star guard endorsed the club’s decision to keep its premier trade chips. By holding firm, Los Angeles preserved the flexibility to clear more than $50 million in cap room this summer—even if Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart exercise their player options.
LeBron decision looms
The projected cap figure does not include LeBron James. Team sources said the Lakers would welcome the 41-year-old forward back in 2026-27 if he opts to continue playing. Pelinka has repeatedly stated that he hopes James retires as a Laker. Still, one Eastern Conference executive told ESPN it might serve the organization better to let James leave and retool around Doncic, stressing the importance of retaining Austin Reaves and pairing Doncic with another creator.
Early free-agent targets
Internally, Los Angeles has discussed pursuing Heat forward Andrew Wiggins and Rockets wing Tari Eason in 2026 free agency, sources said. Wiggins holds a 2026-27 player option, while Eason would hit the market as a restricted free agent. Nuggets swingman Peyton Watson is also on the radar; Denver may struggle to match an aggressive offer sheet without sliding into second-apron territory.
A rival executive emphasized that the Lakers need “as many defenders with length that can knock down a shot as possible.” Tobias Harris, Quentin Grimes, and Dean Wade—each set to be unrestricted in 2026—fit that description.
Giannis remains the marquee prize
Lakers officials believe they could mount a serious run at two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo if the Milwaukee Bucks revisit trade talks this summer, according to team sources. Los Angeles will be able to offer up to three first-round picks (2026, 2031, 2033), and one Western Conference executive told ESPN the organization views Antetokounmpo as the primary target.
The Lakers head into the 2026 offseason armed with cap space, draft capital and a roster centered on Luka Doncic—assets they hope will translate into star power and supporting depth.
Source: Hoops Rumors
