Trade rumors surrounding Daniel Gafford are ramping up again, and the Lakers are one of the teams interested in him. His defensive energy, vertical presence, and low-maintenance offensive game have always made him a logical target for a roster built around high-usage stars. And now that his name is circulating again, the question naturally returns: is this the moment for the Lakers to finally make a move?
With Nico Harrison getting fired and the Mavericks looking to make major roster changes, Daniel Gafford is one player who might be on his way out of Dallas. According to Brett Siegel of Clutchpoints, the Lakers have been eyeing Gafford since last season.
“Coincidentally enough, one of the teams with strong interest in Gafford dating back to last season is the Los Angeles Lakers, sources said.”
Why Gafford Fits So Well
On paper, it makes a lot of sense. Gafford has already played with Luka Doncic in Dallas, where they reached the NBA finals. Luka historically unlocks lob-centered bigs better than almost anyone. Gafford’s rim protection, weak-side shot-blocking, and ability to sprint the floor would fit perfectly in JJ Redick’s system, which rewards athletic centers who can anchor the back line and finish plays created by the stars.
He wouldn’t need the ball, he wouldn’t take possessions away from Luka or LeBron, and he would immediately boost the Lakers’ physicality inside.
Why He Shouldn’t Be a Priority
Despite the clean fit, the Lakers don’t need Gafford—not with DeAndre Ayton playing some of the best, most consistent basketball of his career. Ayton has been reliable, efficient, and stabilizing. He rebounds, finishes, and gives the team a dependable presence at the 5 every night.
Adding Gafford would be adding to a strength, not addressing a weakness. And unless JJ Redick suddenly wants to lean into two-big lineups—a look he has barely explored this season—Gafford becomes more redundant than essential.
Why It Makes Sense
There is one angle where a Gafford trade becomes strategic: if the Lakers believe Ayton is leaving next offseason.
Ayton has a player option and could leave next season, especially if he continues his excellent play. He could easily command a much more lucrative contract. If the Lakers think that’s coming, acquiring Gafford now becomes a long-term play—securing an athletic, system-friendly big who aligns with Luka’s timeline and doesn’t require the touches Ayton does.
The Lakers Have Bigger Issues
If the goal is to improve this year’s roster, the priority isn’t at center. The Lakers need:
- Point-of-attack defenders
- Long, switchable wings
- Real athleticism
- Backcourt depth that can survive playoff minutes
Trading significant assets for Gafford doesn’t meaningfully address the issues that matter. The Lakers need tools on the perimeter, not another big man—even a good one.
Final Thoughts
The interest is real. The fit is clean. The history is there. But unless Ayton’s future feels shaky—or the Mavericks’ feel extra generous with their asking price—Daniel Gafford remains a luxury move for a team that should be hunting necessities.
