NBA Rumors: Lakers Eyeing Daniel Gafford Trade to Fix Big Man Woes

The Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks could strike another deal this offseason, following their blockbuster trade for Luka Dončić in February 2025.

While Mavericks fans may be hesitant to see more transactions with the Lakers, ESPN’s Tim MacMahon suggested on The Hoop Collective podcast that another trade could be in the works.

"This is just me playing amateur GM, trying to figure out potential moves that make sense," MacMahon said. "The Mavericks quietly explored Daniel Gafford’s trade value before the deadline, and it wouldn’t be surprising if they revisited that this summer."

He explained, "Dereck Lively II is a year away from an extension, and Gafford is entering the final year of his contract. He’ll rightly want starting center money, but Dallas can’t afford to pay him big dollars alongside Anthony Davis’ max deal and Lively’s upcoming extension."

MacMahon added, "Luka has great chemistry with Gafford, but I don’t know if Mavericks GM Nico Harrison is eager to sit down with Rob Pelinka again so soon—or if they’d want to facilitate another move that benefits Luka."

The proposed trade would likely involve Rui Hachimura and draft picks heading to Dallas, a deal MacMahon believes could work for both teams.

Gafford would address the Lakers' glaring need for a reliable starting center. Despite injury setbacks in 2024-25, the 26-year-old averaged 12.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game. His synergy with Dončić in Dallas suggests he could thrive again alongside the superstar in Los Angeles. 

If the price isn’t too steep, this trade could be a smart move for the Lakers—though MacMahon emphasized this was purely speculative for now.

With the Lakers urgently seeking frontcourt help, expect numerous centers to be linked to them in the coming months. GM Rob Pelinka has indicated they’re open to different types of big men rather than targeting a specific archetype.

Image - Jerome Miron-Imagn