4 Realistic Center Options for the Los Angeles Lakers in 2025

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Evan Massey | Last updated May 1, 2025 2:57 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers saw their 2024-25 NBA season come to an end on Wednesday night. After losing Game 5 to the Minnesota Timberwolves at home, the Lakers were eliminated from playoff contention.

Luka Doncic and LeBron James were unable to power Los Angeles past the first round. One of the clear needs throughout the series was finding a legitimate center.

At the deadline when the Lakers acquired Doncic, they also agreed to a trade with the Charlotte Hornets for Mark Williams. However, the team found something they didn't like during his physical and rescinded the trade.

Looking ahead to the offseason, who could Los Angeles look to bring in to fill the center need that was so obvious?

Here are four potential options who could be realistic additions for the Lakers.

Al Horford, Boston Celtics, Free Agency

One potential fit could be playing for the Celtics in the playoffs right now. Horford is set to become a free agent and could be a perfect short-term fix for Los Angeles.

During the 2024-25 season, Horford played in 60 games, starting in 42 of those appearances. He averaged nine points per game to go along with 6.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and brought solid interior defense as well. Those skills would fit the Lakers' needs well.

Brook Lopez, Milwaukee Bucks, Free Agency

Making a move for Lopez could also make sense for Los Angeles. He can stretch the floor to knock down the three, but he's also a good rebounder and a capable defender.

He's not going to carry a team to the playoffs, but he could be exactly the kind of big man role player that helps take the Lakers to the next level.

Myles Turner, Indiana Pacers, Free Agency

Should Los Angeles want to make a splash, it should look no further than Turner. He has had yet another elite season defensive for the Pacers and has shown the ability to put up good offensive numbers as well.

Throughout the course of the 2024-25 campaign, Turner averaged 15.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists, to go along with two blocks per game. He shot 48.1% from the floor and 39.6% from 3-point range. Turner would be the best possible option for the Lakers.

Clint Capela, Atlanta Hawks, Free Agency

Finally, they could go with a defender and rebounder in the form of Capela. He isn't going to put up big scoring numbers, but he would protect the rim and rebound well.

Standing in at 6-foot-10 and 256 pounds, Capela brings great size to the court, which is what Los Angeles was missing. He played in 55 games, with 41 of those being starts. Capela averaged 8.9 points, 8.5 rebounds, and a block per game.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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