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 have a few needs during the offseason, and finding a center is at the top of that list. If the Lakers don't land a competent center to pair with LeBron James and Luka Doncic, they should expect similar struggles heading into next season.

"And when it came to the Mavericks-Lakers trade talks that led to the deal, league and team sources say Doncic’s uncertain long-term status was the primary reason the Lakers were able to avoid giving up their 2031 first-round pick in the deal."