Lakers may face a dilemma when evaluating major team need

The Los Angeles Lakers' top priority this offseason has been no secret. After falling to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs, it's clear that the Lakers need help defending the paint if they want to contend. 

The pressure is now on Los Angeles to acquire a post presence to aid Lebron James and Luka Doncic next season. 

Though this goal may seem straightforward, several factors could impact how the Lakers approach acquiring a new big man. When assessing their trade targets, the front office will need to consider how much capital they are willing to give up and whether they believe this team could realistically compete for a title.

Los Angeles has several intriguing role players on expiring contracts that may catch the eyes of other franchises.

Vishwesha Kumar of Fadeaway World highlighted that the Lakers' trade assets include Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, Dalton Knecht, Maxi Kleber and Shake Milton.

Los Angeles also has solid draft capital to pair with a player or two in a potential deal. The Lakers can trade either their 2031 or 2032 first-round pick, have five potential pick swaps in 2026, 2028, 2030, 2031 and 2032 and a 2025 second-round pick to dangle.

While Reaves and Hachimura would likely be considered the Lakers' most valuable assets, the other players and picks could still hold some appeal for interested teams.

If Los Angeles is willing to part with a significant number of assets, they could potentially acquire a younger center to pair with Doncic in the long run. The Brooklyn Nets' Nic Claxton and Dallas Mavericks' Daniel Gafford, both 26, have been identified as potential targets.

Claxton's athleticism would be a major benefit for the Lakers. In addition to his ability to protect the rim, he would give Los Angeles an adaptable defender capable of guarding multiple positions. On the offensive end, though his role may be limited, Claxton could contribute as a potential lob threat and for second-chance points.

Gafford is an outstanding rim protector, and his experience playing with Doncic in Dallas would ease his transition to Los Angeles. His run to the NBA Finals last season also gives him valuable insight into what it takes to compete for a championship.