Apr 9, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford (21) and Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) in action during the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Los Angeles Lakers at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images / Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Lakers are poised for a big move after a disappointing first round playoff exit to the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Howard played just one season in Los Angeles before signing with the Houston Rockets in free agency, leaving the Lakers depleted of assets with no long-term return. That situation is believed to have informed the Lakers’ more measured approach in the Doncic negotiations.