In a plot twist worthy of a Hollywood epic, the Los Angeles Lakers are refusing to let go of their quest for a dominant rim protector, even as DeAndre Ayton lights up the court with career-best numbers. Yes, you read that right—the Purple and Gold, fresh off acquiring superstar Luka Dončić in a seismic offseason shakeup, are eyeing another massive move. According to Bleacher Report’s NBA insider Jake Fischer, Daniel Gafford, the Dallas Mavericks’ shot-swatting sensation averaging 1.6 blocks per game, tops their wish list for a true pick-and-roll partner to unleash Dončić’s full potential.
Ayton, who signed a bargain deal with the Lakers this summer, has been nothing short of explosive. Through the early games of the 2025-26 season, he’s posting 16.5 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game on a scorching 69.9% field goal percentage—making him one of the league’s most efficient bigs. His mid-range touch and post dominance have exceeded all expectations in Los Angeles, helping propel the team to an impressive 11-4 start. But despite this “unbelievable explosion,” as insiders are calling it, the Lakers’ front office isn’t fully sold. Ayton’s lower block rate leaves something to be desired in the rim-protection department, and with his $8.1 million player option looming next season, he could bolt if a bigger payday calls.
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Enter Daniel Gafford, the “basketball giant” who’s become the Lakers’ ultimate obsession. Since joining the Mavericks, Gafford has been a model of efficiency and defense, averaging 10.3 points, 6.1 rebounds, and those coveted 1.6 blocks per game on 66.1% shooting this season. His 1.6 blocks tie him with Milwaukee’s Myles Turner for 10th among the league’s leaders, showcasing elite rim protection that could transform the Lakers’ defense. More importantly, Gafford shares proven deep-playoff chemistry with Dončić from their Dallas days, where they reached the Western Conference Finals and NBA Finals. “Who better to go after than someone who had massive success alongside Dončić?” Fischer rhetorically asked, highlighting why Gafford fits like a glove.
Gafford’s three-year, $54 million extension was cleverly structured without the six-month trade restriction, keeping him highly movable. “They avoided the six-month trade restriction… keeping up that flexibility and optionality for him to get dealt,” Fischer explained. This makes him a prime target for a Lakers team hungry for a lob-finishing, drive-deterring center to relieve pressure in the pick-and-roll—areas where Ayton’s game, while strong, doesn’t quite align as perfectly.
To make a deal happen, the Lakers have assets ready. Veterans like Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent are frequently mentioned as potential outgoing pieces, providing the necessary salary matching. “They have a good chunk if they combine Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent,” Fischer noted, though he cautioned that the team won’t part with significant draft capital unless absolutely necessary.
But why Gafford over other bigs like Domantas Sabonis? It’s simple: his athleticism, manageable $18 million annual salary, elite finishing (66.1% FG), and that playoff-tested bond with Dončić make him the ideal fit. Other options carry heftier contracts or lack the vertical pop needed for Dončić’s lob-heavy style. As Fischer puts it, the Lakers are prioritizing a “lob threat big” to address their two key needs alongside a 3&D wing.
Despite the buzz, the Lakers aren’t rushing. Their hot start allows time to evaluate the current core, including the dynamic duo of Dončić and LeBron James. “See what this group really looks like… before they really push their chips in,” Fischer advised. Still, with Gafford emerging as the most realistic and impactful target, this “summer blockbuster” could extend into the trade deadline drama. If Ayton’s explosion continues, will the hunt cool off? Or will the Lakers pull the trigger on a move that could solidify their championship contender status? Stay tuned—this storyline is far from over.