The Los Angeles Lakers were swept in the Western Conference semifinals by the Oklahoma City Thunder, a series in which Luka Doncic did not play due to a hamstring injury sustained late in the regular season. Despite the disappointing exit, the Slovenian superstar remains the franchise cornerstone after being acquired in what many consider one of the most lopsided trades in NBA history.
LeBron James may opt out of his contract this summer, and even if the future Hall of Famer returns for another season, the Lakers need to prioritize building around Doncic. As a team that remains a top destination for free agents, Los Angeles has several intriguing options to pursue when the market opens.
**3. Jalen Clark, Small Forward, Restricted Free Agent**
Whether or not James stays, the Lakers already boast elite offensive firepower. Doncic led the league with 33.5 points per game, while the team ranked among the top three in field goal percentage (50.2%) and free throws made per game (20.4). Austin Reaves also averaged 23.3 points, and both players excel at creating open looks for teammates.
However, a Doncic–Reaves backcourt raises serious defensive concerns. The Lakers lack perimeter stoppers, making it essential to add elite defenders who can take on tough assignments. Jalen Clark fits that need. While his offense is limited, he brings relentless energy on defense. Over the past two seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Clark averaged just 13.1 minutes per game due to his offensive shortcomings, but he consistently contributed steals, rim protection, and disrupted easy scoring opportunities. In Los Angeles, his lack of offense would not be a major issue. As a restricted free agent, the Timberwolves can match any offer, but they may be willing to let him go after a stagnant season.
**2. Payton Watson, Small Forward, Restricted Free Agent**
Payton Watson appears poised to be one of the highest-paid free agents this summer. If the Lakers can afford him, he would be an excellent addition. The 2025–26 season was Watson’s breakout year. He continued to provide elite rim protection and defensive versatility while also emerging as a significant scoring threat.
The former UCLA forward, who averaged just 3.3 points in college, put up 14.6 points per game for the Denver Nuggets this season. During Nikola Jokic’s absences, Watson frequently scored over 20 points, showcasing his ability to take on a larger offensive role with any team. His jump shot, though unorthodox, is effective—he shot 41.1% from three-point range. Combined with his defensive energy, Watson represents the kind of high-upside player worth a bold investment. If James leaves, Watson would be an ideal fit for the Lakers.
**1. Mitchell Robinson, Center, Free Agent**
Clark and Watson address the wing depth, but the Lakers’ most pressing need is at center. Last offseason, Los Angeles signed Deandre Ayton in a rush to fill the position, and the former No. 1 pick had an inconsistent first year with the team. Ayton struggled with defense, toughness, and accepting his role, often drawing criticism from head coach JJ Redick and publicly voicing his frustrations. It would not be surprising if Ayton declines his player option this summer. Meanwhile, backup centers Jaxson Hayes and Maxi Kleber are also set to become free agents.
The Lakers need a center who better complements their system, and Mitchell Robinson should be their primary target. The New York big man has served as Karl-Anthony Towns’ backup in recent years but has proven capable of starting. Robinson is one of the league’s best rebounders and shot blockers, and he is a superior lob finisher compared to Ayton—a crucial skill for an offense built around Doncic. Robinson should be the Lakers’ top priority on the free agent market.
