The Athletic is providing live updates on the 2025 NBA free agency.
The Lakers in the Spotlight
Amid all the chatter about big names and trades, the NBA’s narrative often gravitates toward the Los Angeles Lakers, despite their frustrations with the media’s focus. The Lakers are making headlines during the offseason, particularly due to their notable weakness at center and the diverging trajectories of their star players.
Trade Rumors Heat Up
The latest buzz surged following Dorian Finney-Smith’s decision to opt out of his contract, thrusting the Lakers into the limelight as discussions swirled among scouts, executives, agents, and reporters. Questions emerged: Is LeBron James seeking a trade? Could Finney-Smith be leaving? Are the Lakers considering a trade involving Austin Reaves for Walker Kessler? And did Deandre Ayton just take a buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers to join Luka Dončić?
LeBron James and Trade Conversations
James remains a focal point, with Rich Paul’s remarks causing a stir around the league, suggesting anything from a trade request to a reminder for the Lakers that his role in the team dynamics is crucial, even as they prioritize plans surrounding Dončić.
Challenges with Finney-Smith
Finney-Smith’s departure to the Houston Rockets presented challenges for the Lakers. The team reportedly offered a shorter deal in hopes of retaining flexibility for future superstars, but losing him led to a swift pivot toward Jake LaRavia, a free agent with potential who recently showcased promise in his former stints.
Landing LaRavia
The Lakers quickly pursued LaRavia upon the opening of free agency, impressed by his skills and their pitch regarding the Lakers’ strengths. They secured him with a two-year, $12 million guaranteed contract, which LaRavia celebrated on social media, expressing excitement about joining the team.
Center Position Uncertainty
The Lakers’ immediate task remains finding a center. They initially targeted Brook Lopez, Clint Capela, and Ayton, but Lopez signed with the Clippers and Capela shifted to Houston. Ayton remains a top priority; however, the Milwaukee Bucks are also vying for him, complicating the Lakers’ pursuit.
The Road Ahead
With ongoing negotiations, a potential team sale, and Dončić’s extension looming, the Lakers are positioned at the center of one of the most significant narratives of this free agency. They have much work ahead, ensuring they remain a compelling story in the NBA landscape.
(Photo of Luka Dončić and LeBron James: Kiyoshi Mio / Imagn Images)
