The Los Angeles Lakers face a critical offseason as they seek to upgrade their center position, a need highlighted by their recent playoff exit. Following the trade of Anthony Davis for Luka Doncic, the team's depth at center has dwindled, forcing them to rely on Jaxson Hayes and two-way players who were ineligible for postseason play. General Manager Rob Pelinka recognized the roster’s shortcoming at the 5 spot and emphasized the necessity of adding size and versatility to the frontcourt in the upcoming summer.

Pelinka noted the challenges of making a significant trade mid-season, likening the process to building a plane while flying. He acknowledged the necessity of bringing in a center who can serve as a lob threat and enhance interior defense. Despite a failed attempt to acquire Mark Williams due to a failed physical, the Lakers are poised to explore various archetypes of centers to bolster their roster and eliminate the rebounding disparities that plagued them against the Minnesota Timberwolves.