Lakers predicted to sign $19M elite rebounder, rim protector as perfect Luka Doncic lob threat

The Los Angeles Lakers are hoping to have a strong offseason as they continue building around Luka Dončić, who is now the face of the franchise. The top priority for Los Angeles is constructing a win-now roster around him, similar to what he emphasized last May when he met with the organization after the season.

“Dončić being just 26 gives the Lakers a far longer timeline to build a championship-contending team, but that doesn't mean they can slow down and take their time. Dončić told Lakers president Rob Pelinka and coach JJ Redick in May that he's not interested in taking the slow approach in building a contender,” CBS Sports’ Jasmyn Wimbish wrote.

The good news for the Lakers is that following this postseason, they are expected to have significant financial flexibility to build around Dončić.

“The Lakers have a megastar in Dončić and a unique amount of potential cap space for a title hopeful this offseason. This summer will go a long way toward determining how well they can build a championship contender around Luka over the next few years,” Silver Screen and Roll’s Bryan Toporek wrote.

One potential target this offseason is young rim-running center Jalen Duren of the Detroit Pistons.

“Los Angeles wants to use any remaining cap space to improve their roster. Finding a starting center and wing depth should be the top priorities. Duren may be the Lakers' chance to get a young star that would dominate next to Luka. Teams couldn’t afford to send two at the 22-year-old, so he would feast wearing purple and gold. The Los Angeles Lakers will get their shot at stealing Jalen Duren from the Detroit Pistons this summer. The top-seed being upset in the first round of the playoffs would be cause for change. Detroit is down 3-1 and looking lost. It could make Duren available. The Lakers are primed with cap space and ready to pounce. All LA needs is Orlando to finish off the upset,” Lake Show Life’s Tyler Watts wrote.

Duren has continued to develop throughout his young career and is expected to improve even further in the coming years. He brings a physical presence that does not shy away from any challenge.

Adding a dominant interior presence like Duren would be a major boost for Dončić. So far in his career, Duren has earned roughly $19 million, and while his next contract will be significantly larger, it may still be more manageable than other available center options.

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