The Los Angeles Lakers are actively seeking to solidify their center position ahead of the upcoming NBA season. Despite a slow start in free agency, they have shifted their focus to the trade market, exploring several potential options. Reports indicate that the Lakers have engaged in discussions with the Phoenix Suns regarding Nick Richards, and have also shown interest in Yves Missi and Robert Williams III from the New Orleans Pelicans and Portland Trail Blazers, respectively.

In addition, the Orlando Magic are a target for the Lakers, as they inquire about Wendell Carter Jr. and Goga Bitadze. While these players may not be star names, each could provide a significant upgrade to the Lakers' current roster. Missi stands out as a promising choice, being the 21st overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft with impressive rookie statistics, suggesting he has the potential to complement stars like LeBron James and Luka Dončić effectively.

The Phoenix Suns are making significant changes this offseason, focusing on re-tooling their roster around star Devin Booker after a disappointing last season. The Suns kicked off their transformative efforts by trading Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets and continued to bolster their lineup during the 2025 NBA Draft. They selected Khaman Maluach, Rasheer Fleming, and Koby Brea, while also acquiring Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets.

With these strategic moves, the Suns aim to revitalize their performance and contend in the Western Conference. One potential trade target this summer is Nick Richards; the Lakers have expressed interest in him, needing a reliable starting center to support their star trio of LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves. Last season, Richards demonstrated his potential with averages of 9.5 points and 8.6 rebounds per game, making him an appealing option for Los Angeles.

The Los Angeles Lakers are actively searching for solutions to fill their center position, which has become a pressing need following the loss of Dorian Finney-Smith to the Houston Rockets. With limited moves so far in free agency, names like Deandre Ayton and Nick Richards are surfacing as potential trade targets. Ayton's buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers has raised interest, while Nick Richards of the Phoenix Suns is also on the Lakers' radar.

Another promising option is Yves Missi of the New Orleans Pelicans, who had a solid rookie season, averaging 9.1 points and 8.2 rebounds per game. The Lakers are also exploring trades with the Orlando Magic for Wendell Carter Jr. and Goga Bitadze. Robert Williams III of the Trail Blazers, whose price may have dropped following Ayton's departure, has also been discussed. Any of these moves could significantly impact the Lakers' frontcourt depth.

The Los Angeles Lakers are actively pursuing a solution to their center position following the recent loss of Dorian Finney-Smith to the Houston Rockets. With limited options in free agency, the Lakers are eyeing Nick Richards of the Phoenix Suns. After the Suns added Mark Williams and rookie Khaman Maluach to their roster, Richards has become an expendable asset. His non-guaranteed contract for the 2025-26 season makes him a trade candidate, and sources indicate that several teams, including the Lakers, have shown interest.

Richards, who averaged 9.3 points and 8.2 rebounds last season, could bolster the Lakers' rebounding efforts and provide rim protection. The team is also considering Deandre Ayton, who recently reached a buyout agreement with the Portland Trail Blazers. If Ayton doesn't join the Lakers, Richards could serve as a viable fallback option. With limited resources, securing Richards might be crucial for the Lakers to remain competitive this season.

The Indiana Pacers are gearing up for a pivotal offseason after activating Tony Bradley's $2.9 million option and extending a qualifying offer to Isaiah Jackson, who spent last season sidelined due to a torn Achilles. With Myles Turner anticipated to re-sign, the Pacers are looking for a dependable backup in the frontcourt.

Meanwhile, the Phoenix Suns plan to guarantee Nick Richards' contract, whose performance last season included averages of 9.5 points and 8.6 rebounds over 36 games. Richards has attracted interest from teams including the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers, and the Pacers. The Pacers, armed with assets like Jarace Walker or promising draft picks, may be well-positioned to negotiate a trade.