The Los Angeles Lakers should acquire Yves Missi as the ideal young center to pair with Luka Doncic after the New Orleans Pelicans traded up to 13th overall in the 2025 draft to select Derik Queen. LA has been hunting for a starting big man since number 77 arrived. Missi started and showed promise as a rookie on a struggling Pelicans squad. He could display more in Hollywood as nobody is better at unlocking a big than Doncic.
Doncic made his desire for a rim-rolling lob target clear. The Lakers traded for Mark Williams, only to rescind the deal after questions arose about his physical. LA must find an upgrade this offseason. They should be looking for a young talent that fits in the present and future around Luka.
Missi averaged 9.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in 26.8 minutes per game as Pels’ primary starting center. He scored 1.11 points per possession as a roll man. Now, imagine him being fed wide-open looks from the best pick-and-roll ball handler in the world. This could be a fantastic combo.
Yves Missi is the perfect center target for the Lakers
New Orleans fired David Griffin and hired Joe Dumars to run their front office this offseason. Their new group did not draft Missi and has no ties to keeping him. The 21-year-old has three left on his rookie contract and could be readily available as New Orleans makes room for Derik Queen.
Missi finished 116 dunks as a rookie with CJ McCollum getting the most minutes as their point guard. Doncic is a significant upgrade and could wreak havoc with the 21-year-old operating as his roll man.
Luka is committed to improving his body and ready to reach another level. He was pissed by the Lakers first-round playoff exit. Doncic led the Mavericks to the NBA Finals in 2024 and wants to get his first championship. He needs a center to boost his odds and could have a long-term fit in Missi.
The Lakers should trade their 2031 first-round pick for the current Pelicans big man. LA must watch their spending, but Missi is on a bargain contract. He could instantly slot in as their starter and could be paired with a veteran free agent capable of splitting the minutes.
Missi doesn’t stretch the floor and will make mistakes. Luka Doncic has consistently made his centers better and would do the same with this 21-year-old. The Lakers should go get him before some other team does. Missi could break out in LA and be the team’s starting center for the next 15 years.
The Los Angeles Lakers want to improve their roster around Luka Doncic. They have limited assets, but expect Rob Pelinka to acquire a starting center and upgrade their chances of winning it all. Nobody thought Missi would be available, but the Queen picks likely puts him on the market. The Lakers should jump at the opportunity before it is too late.