Lakers predicted to trade for $58M Finals champion, 10X All-Star, perfect Luka Doncic lob threat

The Los Angeles Lakers are now firmly Luka Dončić’s team after acquiring him at last season’s trade deadline. The organization’s top priority is building around Dončić, something they discussed with their superstar at the end of last 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.

Los Angeles is well-positioned heading into the offseason, particularly with its available cap space. That flexibility gives the Lakers a strong opportunity to build a contender 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.

The Lakers could look to make a major move this summer, potentially involving a familiar face in Anthony Davis.

“Davis controls this situation. He didn’t want to leave the Lakers. The ten-time All-Star may be eager to return. Fans would love that idea. It would force LA to craft a hefty package to match his $58.4 million salary. It isn’t impossible, but it wouldn’t leave much wiggle room to build out the roster around Luka Doncic. The door is open to bring Anthony Davis back to the Los Angeles Lakers. He is clearly not happy in the nation’s capital,” Lake Show Life’s Tyler Watts wrote.

A reunion with Davis would be significant for the Lakers, as he already has strong chemistry with much of the roster. He would also fit exactly what Dončić thrives with—a big man who can run the floor and finish at the rim.

The key for Davis would be staying healthy and developing that on-court connection with Dončić. Davis is making $58 million this season, the same contract he signed while previously in Los Angeles. A return to LA would be a dramatic and fascinating turn of events.

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