Los Angeles Lakers eye red-hot center as potential trade target ahead of NBA deadline

Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly scanning the market for frontcourt reinforcements, and one name has caught their attention — Daniel Gafford of the Dallas Mavericks. Despite a solid start from Deandre Ayton, the Lakers appear eager to bolster their interior depth as the NBA trade deadline inches closer.

According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, Los Angeles is among several teams closely monitoring Gafford’s situation in Dallas. The 27-year-old big man, who signed a three-year, $60 million contract extension earlier this year, has been one of the few bright spots for the Mavericks despite their inconsistent start to the 2025–26 season.

Los Angeles Lakers monitoring Daniel Gafford’s status in Dallas

Siegel reported that while the Mavericks are not in “panic mode,” rival teams have kept a close eye on Gafford’s availability as the trade market begins to heat up.

“It is no secret that Harrison and the Mavericks’ front office will explore what return exists for Klay Thompson before the trade deadline, and several teams are monitoring Daniel Gafford’s status, sources said,” Siegel wrote.

The Los Angeles Lakers’ interest in Gafford is not new — Siegel also revealed that Los Angeles had shown strong interest in the center dating back to last season, suggesting that the franchise sees him as an ideal fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

“Coincidentally enough, one of the teams with a strong interest in Daniel Gafford dating back to last season is the Los Angeles Lakers, sources said. Could we see a reunion between Luka Dončić and Gafford in Los Angeles in February?”

Gafford’s form makes him a hot commodity

After missing the season’s opening stretch, Gafford has made an impressive return, showcasing his two-way versatility and elite finishing ability. In three appearances so far, he has averaged 12 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, 1.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game, while shooting a remarkable 75% from the field in just over 22 minutes per outing.

His latest performance — a 15-point, eight-rebound, two-block effort on 6-for-8 shooting — reminded teams why he’s considered one of the league’s most efficient rim protectors and lob threats. For the Lakers, who have struggled with consistency from their supporting bigs, adding Daniel Gafford could be a move to reinforce their playoff aspirations.

Strategic fit for Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers’ pursuit of Gafford aligns with their long-standing goal of adding athleticism and rim protection behind Davis. With Gafford’s mobility, defensive instincts, and efficient finishing, he could serve as both a reliable backup and a dynamic complement in dual-big lineups.