Leading up to the NBA deadline, there was plenty of uncertainty around the Los Angeles Lakers. Regarding, whether Rob Pelinka and the rest of Lakers’ management will make a move to upgrade their roster or not. But, they caught everyone off guard after acquiring superstar Luka Doncic from the Mavericks.

Many would say they were a couple of moves away from becoming serious title contenders. With Doncic’s arrival, they have sorted out the backcourt. However, Los Angeles is in dire need of some front-court help. To understand this, Anthony Davis played at the center position so far this season, and with his departure, a huge gap opens in the team.

That being said, NBA Insider Dave McMenamin has revealed that Pelinka and the Lakers are not done just yet! “This Lakers group now will be cognizant and dependent on the Lakers front office over the next four days before the trade deadline comes to improve this team defensively, particularly at the center position.” Said McMenamin. He’s stating that the Lakers might just go all in to make the most of draft capital before February 6th.

This comes with their glaring struggles at the center position– Christian Wood and Maxi Kleber are out with injuries. The only healthy center on their roster is Jaxson Hayes. So, adding another center is on Rob Pelinka’s checklist. Moreover, they still have their 2031 first-round pick and two more second-round picks to make a deal happen. It will be interesting to see who could be the one to team up with Doncic, LeBron James, and the rest of the Lakers squad. Let’s which players could end up at L.A. with the clock ticking aggressively.

Who can team up with Luka Doncic and LeBron James in Los Angeles?

L.A. has been in need of a big man for the longest time now, and with Anthony Davis’ departure, they cannot wait any longer! So, which names could be seen in a Lakers jersey come 6th February? Well, let’s start with the Bulls’ Nikola Vucevic. He’s been in stellar form for Chicago averaging 19.9 points, and 10.4 rebounds each game. Moreover, Vucevic will give the Lakers a much-needed interior presence and a great rebounder. He currently has two years on his contract and could be brought in exchange for a first-rounder.

Moving on, Utah Jazz’s center Walker Kessler has been on L.A.’s radar for over a year. He’s an absolute unit! averaging 10.9 points, and 11.4 rebounds. However, the only issue is Danny Ainge’s crazy asking price for two first-round picks! The Lakers also could make a move for Brooklyn’s Nic Claxton. With the Nets gathering picks for their future blockbuster move, this could be a great option for the Los Angeles front office. If the Lakers are looking for a more seasoned and cost-effective option they could move for Jonas Valanciunas. The Wizards center is 7th in the league for rebounding and is also a decent scorer with 11.5 points per game and a shooting average of 55.1 percent.

Lastly, the Trail Blazers have made it known that they’re listening to offers for Robert Williams III. He’s not the biggest out of the lost standing at 6-foot-9, but will nonetheless be an upgrade for the team. Moreover, the Lakers might even save their first-round pick, making a move for him. Overall, there are great options available for Pelinka and the Lakers to further strengthen their roster and create a really competitive team. Let’s wait and watch what they decide prior to February 6th.