As the Los Angeles Lakers weigh their offseason strategy, ESPN’s Dave McMenamin has offered a word of caution when it comes to swinging big on a trade for a high-cost center such as Nic Claxton.
Speaking on the Straight Fire with Jason McIntyre podcast, McMenamin suggested that instead of using substantial assets or cap space to land a $20–30 million per year center, the Lakers would be wise to pursue a lower-risk option with more flexibility.
“I am of the opinion to not go all-in on someone like a Claxton, etc. making $20–30 million (per year),” McMenamin explained. “… They’re going to have the taxpayer mid-level available to them, so I’d try to go and get a guy at that level and if he doesn’t prove to be the best fit, make sure you’re holding on to one of your picks and then you can try to pursue something come February.”
The Lakers, who voided their deal for Mark Williams earlier this year due to medical concerns, will likely prioritize signing or trading for a center this summer.
However, McMenamin’s comments reflect a broader strategic mindset: maintain cap flexibility and preserve draft capital until the right long-term piece emerges.
With the taxpayer mid-level exception expected to be available, the Lakers could explore a range of affordable veteran options while keeping the door open for a potential trade deadline acquisition if their initial move doesn’t pan out.
In an offseason where pressure will be high to surround LeBron James and Anthony Davis with the right pieces, McMenamin’s message to the Lakers front office is clear: don’t mortgage the future unless the return is truly worth it.
Onyeka Okongwu is just one center the Lakers may look to when addressing their big man depth this summer. Details: https://t.co/jeWRP7LS7Y
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) May 24, 2025
