If Deandre Ayton does not return to the Los Angeles Lakers next season, the 17-time NBA champions will be forced to find a high-impact big man who can seamlessly complement Luka Doncic while providing proven production at the forward or center position.
According to Bleacher Report’s Dan Favale, one name stands out as a potential perfect fit: Miami Heat star Bam Adebayo. Favale believes the Lakers should aggressively pursue the versatile center this summer.
“Los Angeles needs massive upgrades on the wings and in the middle,” Favale wrote. “Given the free-agency pool has more quality center options, the former takes precedence. That is, unless Bam Adebayo proves gettable.”
The Miami Heat have historically avoided traditional rebuilds, but Favale notes that another disappointing offseason could push the franchise to consider trading their defensive anchor. Adebayo is entering a three-year extension that will average over 30% of the salary cap, making a move potentially more realistic if Miami’s contention window narrows.
While Adebayo’s mid-range heavy shot diet raises some questions, Favale highlights his physical tools and basketball IQ as ideal for a system built around elite playmakers. “He has the tools to reorient his usage around elite playmakers like Reaves and Luka Doncic,” the analyst added.
The Record-Setting Performance That Defined His Season
Adebayo’s 2025-26 campaign reached unforgettable heights on March 10 against the Washington Wizards, when he dropped a staggering 83 points — a performance that propelled him past Lakers legend Kobe Bryant on the all-time single-game scoring list.
In 42 minutes of dominance, Adebayo recorded 83 points, nine rebounds, three assists, two steals, and two blocks. He displayed remarkable range by knocking down seven three-pointers, though he did miss 15 attempts from beyond the arc. The outburst perfectly encapsulated his well-rounded game: lethal jab-step and rip-through moves when facing up, elite pick-and-roll mastery, a simple yet effective low-post arsenal, and an innate ability to draw fouls around the rim.
A Natural Fit Alongside Luka Doncic
The prospect of pairing Adebayo with Luka Doncic in Los Angeles is intriguing. The Slovenian superstar’s elite vision and high basketball IQ as a willing passer could unlock even more of Adebayo’s offensive potential, boosting his confidence and efficiency in a new environment.
This rumored interest is not new. Adebayo has been linked to the Lakers since the franchise traded Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks last February. With that backdrop, fans would not be shocked if the Lakers reignite serious trade discussions this summer.
Bringing in a two-way force like Adebayo would address critical frontcourt needs while giving Doncic a dynamic partner capable of both protecting the rim and creating offensive opportunities. For a Lakers team chasing another title, the addition of Miami’s record-setting big man could represent a transformative move.
As the NBA offseason heats up, all eyes will be on whether Los Angeles can pull off this blockbuster acquisition. If the deal materializes, the league’s power balance could shift dramatically — and the Lakers would once again sit at the center of the Western Conference spotlight.