Rob Pelinka is on a hot streak months after pulling off the Luka Doncic trade and weeks after getting a new owner with ample financial resources. The arrow is pointing up for the Los Angeles Lakers, who can set in motion another title run this offseason.
The core is set with Doncic and LeBron James; now it's crucial that Pelinka surrounds his two superstars with the right supporting pieces. The most-desired addition this offseason is easily a viable center as the Lakers' lack of size came back to bite in the NBA Playoffs.
Fans clamoring for the Lakers to add a center this offseason are going to be very happy with Pelinka's latest comments. Based on Pelinka's latest comments, it's safe to say that center is one of the biggest priorities this offseason.
Rob Pelinka on Lakers' center search:
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) June 27, 2025
"We won't rest until we get it right."
Rob Pelinka commits to finding the Lakers the right center
This is exactly the reassuring comment Lakers fans wanted to hear before free agency. Getting the center position right is imperative as the team cannot simply run it back with the quality of player they had last season.
Los Angeles tried to make an improvement at center with an aggressive trade for Mark Williams that was eventually rescinded because of concerns with his physical. Now, the Lakers still have those draft picks and can look to sign a player who can be just as impactful.
As it stands right now, Los Angeles is $16.2 million under the second tax apron the team is currently hard-capped at. With 12 players on the roster, the Lakers have more than enough space to make a pair of minimum signings and spend on a center if needed.
The center market isn't necessarily the definition of robust but there are some notable names available on the market. Long-rumored trade target Myles Turner is on the market and might be exactly the rim-running, floor-spacing big the Lakers are looking for.
Brook Lopez and Al Horford are two veteran options the Lakers can explore, although that probably isn't the route the team wants to go. Horford especially is intriguing with his skill set, although it's hard to predict how much he may regress next season.
Instead, the Lakers could pursue Horford's Celtics teammate, Luke Kornet. Kornet would provide the size the Lakers are looking for, although he wouldn't be the swing Lakers fans are hoping for.
Of course, there are also trade opportunities for the Lakers that could help free up some salary-cap space as well. Portland's Deandre Ayton has become an intriguing option after the NBA Draft, although his name value might be higher than his basketball value.
Either way, the Lakers are going to turn over every stone until they find the right option.