Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka said the franchise will spend the offseason reshaping the roster around star guard Luka Doncic, emphasizing specific player profiles the club believes are essential for a deep playoff run.
According to league sources cited by The Athletic, the front office is focused on three priorities:
1. Upgraded center rotation
Pelinka’s staff wants athletic big men who can serve as consistent lob threats, mirroring the rim-running styles of Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively II but with cleaner injury histories. The shift comes after an uneven season from starter Deandre Ayton, while backup Jaxson Hayes often provided better vertical spacing.
2. True two-way wings
L.A. is searching for versatile forwards who combine perimeter defense, energy and reliable outside shooting—an area the current roster has struggled to balance.
3. Long-term secondary playmaker
The team intends to lock in a backcourt partner who can relieve Doncic of playmaking duties. Austin Reaves fits the description, and both sides have expressed interest in negotiating a new contract to keep him in purple and gold.
The Lakers hold significant cap flexibility, multiple tradeable draft picks and the No. 25 selection in this year’s draft as potential tools to acquire the desired talent.
Since acquiring Doncic, the organization has maintained regular communication with the All-NBA guard, a practice that has continued under new owner Mark Walter. Team sources say Walter speaks with Doncic frequently, a level of engagement the 27-year-old has welcomed.
Free agency opens July 1, giving Pelinka and his staff a two-month window to secure the rim protectors, two-way wings and secondary creator they believe will elevate the Lakers into championship contention.
Source: LakersNation.com
