The Los Angeles Lakers are back in the headlines — and not just because of LeBron James’ looming return. With a 7–3 start to the 2025–26 season, the Purple and Gold are riding high, but beneath the optimism lies an undeniable truth: this roster still isn’t championship-ready. Their defense ranks a disappointing 21st in efficiency, and Deandre Ayton’s struggles at center have raised eyebrows across the league.
So what’s the fix? Enter Daniel Gafford — Luka Dončić’s former running mate and one of the NBA’s most explosive rim protectors. According to ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel, the Lakers have “strong interest” in Gafford dating back to last season, and “several teams are monitoring” his situation closely. Translation: if Dallas even flinches at the idea of moving him, Rob Pelinka will be on the phone before the echo fades.
It’s not hard to see why. Gafford is everything Ayton isn’t right now — athletic, energetic, and relentless on both ends of the floor. He doesn’t need touches to impact the game, and his chemistry with downhill creators like LeBron and Austin Reaves could instantly elevate the Lakers’ pace and defense. Even more compelling? He’s already proven he can thrive next to Dončić, having helped guide Dallas to the 2024 NBA Finals.
Of course, there’s one massive obstacle: Dallas pride. The Mavericks are still licking their wounds from the Dončić fallout, and general manager Nico Harrison is reportedly under immense pressure after a string of questionable moves. Trading with the Lakers — again — might be a PR nightmare. But as one league executive told ESPN off the record last week: “If you’re letting ego stop a smart deal, you’re not doing your job.”
The Lakers, meanwhile, are running out of time and assets. With limited draft capital and few young prospects, putting together a deal won’t be easy. Dalton Knecht, their 24-year-old rookie sharpshooter, hasn’t quite lived up to the hype — shooting just 24.2 percent from deep — which makes him a tough sell as a centerpiece.
Still, there’s a sense of urgency in L.A. LeBron is nearing 41. Dončić is entering his prime. The window is open, but not for long. If Gafford can give the Lakers what JaVale McGee gave the 2020 title squad — vertical spacing, rim protection, and energy — then this move could be the spark that reignites their championship fire.
Let’s be clear: this isn’t just another midseason rumor. This is a potential shift in the power dynamics of the Western Conference. If the Lakers land Gafford and get LeBron back healthy, they instantly become a top-three threat — maybe even the threat — to Denver’s reign.
The message from L.A. is clear: they’re done waiting.
LeBron isn’t chasing stats. Dončić isn’t chasing headlines. They’re chasing rings. And if that means calling Dallas and throwing in every trade chip they’ve got, so be it.
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