The Los Angeles Lakers are actively seeking a defensive-minded center this offseason, and Nic Claxton of the Brooklyn Nets has emerged as the most viable target. Lakers beat writer Jovan Buha highlighted Claxton's talents as a premier rim protector and versatile defender who can guard smaller players. His ability to be impactful on both ends of the floor makes him a perfect fit alongside the Lakers' current stars.

Claxton, now 26, presents a challenging contract situation for the Lakers, who will need to navigate their limited trade assets carefully. Beyond Claxton, Daniel Gafford of the Dallas Mavericks could also be an intriguing option, though his availability is uncertain due to potential reluctance from Mavericks management to facilitate another trade involving their star player, Luka Doncic.

The Los Angeles Lakers faced a disheartening end to their 2025 playoff run, dropping a 4-1 series to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Despite having LeBron James and Luka Doncic on the roster, the team was outmatched, particularly in the frontcourt where the Timberwolves capitalized on their size disadvantage. Rudy Gobert's dominant Game 5 performance was a significant factor in the Lakers' downfall, as they struggled to contain Minnesota's physical presence in the paint.

The Lakers' roster was further weakened by the absence of Anthony Davis, a crucial interior defender, following his trade to Dallas. A failed trade for Mark Williams left the Lakers relying on Jaxson Hayes as their primary center, exposing their lack of depth. Lakers President Rob Pelinka has acknowledged the need for change, specifically in adding size to the center position, hinting at potential offseason strategies.

Names like Nic Claxton and Daniel Gafford have surfaced as possible targets to fill this gap. Claxton, known for his defensive prowess with the Brooklyn Nets, and Gafford, who had a successful stint alongside Doncic in Dallas, could be pivotal in addressing the Lakers' needs. With limited cap space and draft assets, strategic acquisitions will be vital for the Lakers to regain their competitiveness in a challenging Western Conference.

The Dallas Mavericks have once again revamped their training staff, focusing on a healthier future after a season marred by injuries. General Manager Nico Harrison has fired longtime head athletic trainer Dionne Calhoun and athletic performance director Keith Belton, as the franchise seeks to rectify past missteps. With only three players playing more than 57 games, the toll of injuries, including serious ones to Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving, proved fatal to the team's playoff hopes.

The recent firings come amid reported dysfunction within the training staff, further exacerbated by Harrison's decisions that alienated key players, including Luka Dončić. The Mavericks have seen a revolving door of staff in recent offseasons, raising questions about leadership and trust. This latest shake-up aims to restore health protocols and rebuild a culture of accountability as the organization prepares for the upcoming season.

Dallas Mavericks' recent trade involving Luka Doncic has left fans fuming, especially as the team suffered post-trade with a 13-20 record. The Mavericks acquired Anthony Davis, who then became sidelined for much of the season due to injury. Key players such as Kyrie Irving and Daniel Gafford also faced injury setbacks, leading to a disappointing failure to make the playoffs. As a consequence, general manager Nico Harrison has made significant staff changes, including firing the athletic performance director and head athletic trainer.

With Doncic's departure and an aging roster, the Mavericks face a daunting rebuild. The team must navigate contract expirations for young talents and the uncertainty surrounding Davis and Irving's futures as they approach their mid-30s.

The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly looking to acquire a big man to complement Luka Doncic, particularly focusing on Daniel Gafford from the Dallas Mavericks. ESPN's Tim McMahon suggests that a trade could be on the horizon, following the team's previous successful deal that brought Doncic to LA.

With Gafford entering the final year of his contract and potentially seeking a starting center salary, complexities arise with the Lakers' salary cap. McMahon outlines a trade package involving Rui Hachimura and a first-round pick, but cautions that the Lakers may be hesitant to include key players like Austin Reaves, who has been deemed untouchable by management.

As the situation unfolds, the Lakers must navigate the financial intricacies of extending Doncic while balancing their roster to maintain championship aspirations.